Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid found primarily in fatty fish and marine oils. Its use to support the joints body system is grounded in scientific evidence, particularly regarding its anti-inflammatory properties. EPA, along with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), has been shown to modulate inflammatory processes by serving as a precursor to anti-inflammatory eicosanoids and resolvins, which can help reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators implicated in joint disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA).

Clinical trials and meta-analyses have reported that supplementation with EPA-rich fish oil can lead to modest but significant reductions in joint pain, morning stiffness, and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in patients with RA. However, the effect size is generally moderate, and not all studies show benefit. The evidence is stronger for inflammatory forms of arthritis than for osteoarthritis, where results are more mixed.

Professional organizations such as the American College of Rheumatology and the European League Against Rheumatism acknowledge the potential benefit of omega-3 supplementation as an adjunct therapy for inflammatory joint diseases. Overall, while EPA is not a cure and its benefits are modest, there is scientific validation for its use to support joint health, particularly in the context of inflammatory joint conditions.

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Products containing EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

Nature's Sunshine Circulatory System
Nature's Sunshine DHA
Nature's Sunshine Krill Oil (With Vitamin K2)
Nature's Sunshine Super Omega 3 EPA
Nature's Sunshine Super Omega 3 EPA
Nature's Sunshine Super Trio