Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is a long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid found in fish oil and algae. Its use in supporting or treating Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is primarily based on scientific interest rather than tradition. Preclinical studies have shown that DHA may exert anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, which are potentially relevant in MS, a disease characterized by demyelination and chronic inflammation of the central nervous system. Some animal studies have demonstrated that DHA supplementation can reduce the severity of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of MS, suggesting a possible role in modulating immune responses and supporting myelin repair.

However, human clinical evidence remains limited and inconclusive. A few small-scale randomized controlled trials and observational studies have investigated the effects of omega-3 fatty acids (including DHA) on MS progression, relapse rates, and quality of life. These studies have generally not shown significant benefits in reducing disease activity or progression. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses, such as those published in Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders (2020) and the Cochrane Database (2012), conclude that there is insufficient high-quality evidence to support the use of DHA or omega-3 supplementation as an effective therapy for MS.

In summary, while there is a scientific rationale and some preclinical support for DHA supplementation in MS, clinical evidence in humans is weak, and major guidelines do not currently endorse DHA as a treatment for MS.

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