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Taking omega-3 for hypermobility is one of the best things you can do for your body. Omega-3 is well-known for supporting brain and heart health and protecting against chronic conditions. Best of all, it can prevent inflammation.
Despite these benefits, only 47.6% of people with hypermobility syndromes take omega-3.
So, if you or someone you know is grappling with hypermobility, you must consider increasing your omega-3 consumption.
In this article, we’ll explore why Omega-3 is a must-try for hypermobility, and how it can alleviate joint pain, strengthen your joints, and provide a brighter future for those living with hypermobility.
What Supplements are Good for Hypermobility?
When it comes to supplements for hypermobility, Omega-3 should be at the top of your list. Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish oil supplements, have been celebrated for their ability to tackle joint pain and inflammation. These powerful fatty acids can significantly improve the quality of life for people living with hypermobility.
There are other supplements that are good for hypermobility too, including glucosamine, vitamin D, MSM, and magnesium.
Does Lack of Omega-3 Cause Joint Pain?
Absolutely! Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining the health of your joints. When you don’t get enough Omega-3 in your diet, it can lead to joint pain and stiffness. Including Omega-3 supplements can help replenish what your body needs to keep your joints in top shape.
Does Omega-3 Strengthen Joints?
Yes, it does! Omega-3s not only alleviate pain but also help strengthen your joints. They support the production of collagen and other essential components of joint cartilage, contributing to joint stability and flexibility.
One piece of research from 2021 found a positive impact between taking omega-3 and reducing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Participants who took omega-3 reported reduced disease activity and less pain and morning stiffness.
Does Omega-3 Really Reduce Inflammation?
Indeed, it does! Omega-3 fatty acids are renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties. They can significantly reduce inflammation in your joints, providing much-needed relief for hypermobility-related discomfort.
Research backs this up too. One 2022 study found that the polyunsaturated fatty acids in omega-3 can reduce inflammation and cartilage loss in people with osteoarthritis (a condition linked to hypermobility that causes joint pain).
Similarly, the 2021 study mentioned above found that taking higher levels of omega-3 resulted in lower inflammatory biomarkers in the body.
How Long Does It Take for Omega-3 to Work on Joints?
The time it takes for Omega-3 to work on your joints varies from person to person. Some individuals may experience relief within a few weeks, while others might take a bit longer. Consistency is key – make Omega-3 supplements a part of your daily routine to maximize their benefits.
Which Is Better for Joints, Glucosamine, or Omega-3?
While both glucosamine and Omega-3 can benefit joint health, Omega-3 offers the added advantage of reducing inflammation. If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution for hypermobility-related joint issues, Omega-3 is the way to go.
How Much Omega-3 Should I Take Daily for Joint Pain?
The recommended daily dose of Omega-3 varies, but a general guideline is to aim for at least 250-500 milligrams of combined EPA and DHA (two of the key Omega-3 fatty acids). Consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations based on your specific needs.
The 2021 research found that the best results were reported by patients who took more than 2.6 mg or more per day.
To get an idea of how much omega-3 is in food, I’ve put the following table together:
| Food Source | Omega-3 Content (per 1 ounce or 28 grams) |
| Fatty Fish | |
| – Salmon (wild-caught) | Approximately 4,123 mg |
| – Mackerel (Atlantic) | Around 4,580 mg |
| – Sardines | Roughly 2,205 mg |
| Plant-Based Sources | |
| – Chia Seeds | Approximately 4,915 mg |
| – Flaxseeds (ground) | Approximately 6,388 mg of ALA Omega-3s |
| – Walnuts | Approximately 2,542 mg of ALA Omega-3s |
| – Hemp Seeds | Approximately 6,000 mg of ALA Omega-3s |
| Supplements | |
| – Algal Oil | Typically 600-800 mg of EPA and DHA per serving |
| – Fish Oil Supplements | Varies (commonly 300-1,000 mg of EPA and DHA) |
| Other Sources | |
| – Edamame (Soybeans) | Approximately 670 mg of ALA Omega-3s |
| – Herring | Approximately 1,729 mg of EPA and DHA |
| – Soybean Oil | Approximately 927 mg of ALA Omega-3s |
How to Get More Omega-3?
Getting more Omega-3 in your diet is easy. You can start by consuming fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, or sardines. However, if you’re not a fan of fish or have dietary restrictions, Omega-3 supplements are a convenient and effective option.
If you’ve ever taken omega-3 before you may have been put off by the fishy aftertaste. I know I was! All I could smell and taste was fish!
Thankfully, I’ve found a great solution to this problem; fish-free omega-3. Testa’s Omega-3 Algae oil is made from plant-based sources, including algae. As a result, it’s 100% vegan and doesn’t leave any fishy after-effects once you’ve taken it. It’s also great for protecting the lives of fish. Every year, 23 billion kilos of fish are caught just to make omega-3.
As you can see there’s lots of evidence that supports taking omega-3 for hypermobility. The good news is that there are multiple ways to do this, including eating more fish and chia seeds, buying fish-based omega-3 supplements, or opting for vegan fishless omega-3 supplements.
