Researchers at the University of Bristol have found that omega-3 fatty acids, which are commonly believed to be beneficial, may actually increase levels of certain inflammatory markers.
اضافة اعلان
According to the International Journal of Epidemiology (IJE), the team noted that while omega-3 is generally considered anti-inflammatory, their findings suggest the reality may be more nuanced.
The study was based on data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, a 30-year research project that followed individuals born in the former Avon county in England between 1991 and 1992. It also incorporated health information from participants’ parents, siblings, and children.
Analysis showed that higher concentrations of omega-3 in participants’ blood correlated with increased levels of several inflammatory biomarkers.
The researchers emphasized the significance of the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio: when omega-6 was dominant, inflammation increased.
These results were further validated through data from the UK Biobank, one of the world’s largest medical databases, covering around half a million individuals. To assess causality, the scientists used a method called Mendelian randomization, and again found a positive association between omega fatty acids and inflammatory processes.
However, the researchers stressed that inflammation is a complex biological mechanism, and the study does not negate the potential health benefits of omega-3. They clarified that omega-3 is not necessarily harmful, but like any nutrient, its effects depend on context, dosage, and individual factors.
(Source: gazeta.ru)
