Omega 3 fatty acid can help in the treatment of Eczema

Whilst eczema affected skin seems to cry out for moisture-rich creams and oils to relieve dryness, itching and inflammation, recent research has revealed that what is on the inside may be more significant than how eczema sufferers treat its uncomfortable symptoms externally.

Eczema is an extremely common inflammatory skin condition which is largely treated by the use of topical creams and ointments with the occasional use of oral steroids. It is quite normal for those who suffer from eczema to also suffer from inflammatory conditions including allergies and asthma. One of the most common causes of the troublesome condition has been found to be stress, which can not only cause eczema to appear but also can increase tendencies to scratch and itch the affected areas of skin.

A new study published by the British Journal of Dermatology has found that omega 3 fatty acids, DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) in particular, helped to relieve symptoms of eczema in those suffering from the condition. The research which studied 44 adults with eczema, analysed the symptom severity of those taking a daily supplement of DHA in comparison to those taking a placebo, for a period of eight weeks. Symptoms including the size of the affected area, swelling, redness, scabbing, dryness and itching were monitored and scored based on their severity.

Results showed that symptom scores improved in the taking a daily does of DHA omega 3 fatty acids, whilst the symptom scores of those taking the placebo did not significantly change at all. One of the most noticeable improvements in symptoms was the reduction in the size of the affected area with an impressive 42% decrease in size in those taking DHA.

The omega 3 fatty acids DHA and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) are primarily found in the fish oils and have received huge attention for their remarkable anti-inflammatory properties which are well established and documented. These essential fatty acids have been the subject of many research studies which have also found them to be beneficial in the treatment and prevention of many common ailments including, arthritis, cardiovascular disease and depression, to name but a few. One earlier study supports the findings of the new research with results showing that taking a daily supplement of fish oil reduced symptoms in eczema sufferers.

For optimum benefits an omega 3 supplement containing high levels of DHA and EPA can be taken on a daily basis. High Quality Omega 3 Triple Strength 1000mg, offering a remarkable 330mg of EPA and 220mg of DHA is available exclusively at Simply Supplements (www.simplysupplements.co.uk) (Buy One Get One Free, £4.85).