Synopsis

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

Omega-3 fatty acids, primarily found in fish oil, have been investigated for their potential to support or treat Raynaud's Disease due to their anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties. The rationale is that omega-3s can improve endothelial function and reduce blood viscosity, which may be beneficial in Raynaud’s, a condition characterized by episodic vasospasm of the extremities in response to cold or stress.

Several small studies have explored this hypothesis. Notably, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (1989) showed that patients with primary Raynaud’s phenomenon who took high doses of fish oil (omega-3 fatty acids) experienced an increase in finger systolic blood pressure in cold conditions and a reduction in the frequency and severity of Raynaud’s attacks. Another small study similarly reported favorable effects on microcirculation. However, these studies had small sample sizes, and subsequent research has produced mixed results, with some trials failing to find significant benefits.

Systematic reviews and clinical guidelines generally consider the evidence as limited and insufficient to recommend omega-3 supplementation as a standard therapy for Raynaud’s Disease. The existing evidence base is not robust due to methodological limitations and inconsistent findings. Thus, while there is some scientific rationale and preliminary evidence supporting the use of omega-3s for Raynaud's, the overall quality and quantity of evidence are low, justifying a moderate-to-low rating.

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Products containing omega-3 fatty acids

Nature's Sunshine Flax Seed Oil (With Lignans)