Synopsis

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

Omega-3 fatty acids have garnered significant scientific interest for their potential role in supporting healing and recovery after surgery. Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have investigated omega-3 supplementation—particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)—in surgical patients. The evidence suggests that omega-3s may modulate the inflammatory response, improve immune function, and enhance wound healing. These effects are attributed primarily to the anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help counteract the excessive inflammatory response that sometimes follows surgical procedures.

Clinical studies, especially in patients undergoing major abdominal surgeries (such as gastrointestinal cancer resections), have found that perioperative omega-3 supplementation is associated with reduced rates of postoperative infections, shorter hospital stays, and improved overall recovery. A 2017 meta-analysis in Clinical Nutrition reported that immunonutrition formulas enriched with omega-3s reduced infectious complications and hospital length of stay in surgical patients. However, not all studies have shown consistent benefits, and the magnitude of effect varies depending on patient population, type of surgery, and the timing and dose of supplementation.

In summary, while there is no universal consensus and the evidence is not unequivocal, there is moderate scientific validation that omega-3 fatty acids can be beneficial in supporting recovery from surgery, particularly for reducing inflammation and promoting better outcomes in certain patient groups.

More about omega-3 fatty acids
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Products containing omega-3 fatty acids

Nature's Sunshine Flax Seed Oil (With Lignans)