According to the American Heart Association, omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish and fish oils, benefit the hearts of both healthy people and those at risk for coronary heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids are believed to have a variety of effects, including reducing inflammation throughout the body. There is evidence suggesting that omega-3 fatty acids improve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, an inflammatory condition involving the joints. What about other inflammatory disorders?

Two clinical trials conducted between January 2003 and February 2007 at centers around the world evaluated whether the administration of omega-3 fatty acids was effective in preventing the relapse of Crohn disease. In the most recent issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, researchers reported that, in both trials, high doses of omega-3 fatty acids were not more effective than placebo in preventing relapse in Crohn disease.

Because there is no cure for Crohn disease and it can be a very frustrating and debilitating condition, patients with the disorder may seek alternative medicines. While previous studies suggested the possible efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids for Crohn disease, these two trials might spur physicians to discourage the use of omega-3 fatty acids for this inflammatory bowel disease.