Fight Inflammation

DHA and other omega-3 fats have anti-inflammatory properties. Increased DHA consumption can help balance the overabundance of inflammatory omega-6 fats found in Western diets high in soybean and maize oil. DHA's anti-inflammatory characteristics may lower your risk of age-related chronic diseases like heart disease and gum disease, as well as improve autoimmune problems like rheumatoid arthritis, which causes joint discomfort.

In a 10-week study of 38 persons with rheumatoid arthritis, for example, 2,100 mg of DHA daily reduced the number of swollen joints by 28% when compared to a placebo. Though prior research had shown that mixing DHA and EPA supplements helped relieve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, this study was the first to show that DHA alone might reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.