Did you think fish oils were only good for a healthy heart? Think again. There is sufficient evidence suggesting that it can also help in managing certain kinds of pain and discomfort from arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. But is there really a connection between arthritis and fish oil? Let us find out.

Arthritis, more specifically rheumatoid arthritis, is an autoimmune condition wherein the membrane that lubricates and protects the joints become inflamed, leading to pains and discomfort. The most common form of this condition is called osteoarthritis where a sufferer has to live with nagging pain, swelling, inflammation and difficulty in moving. The problem with this condition is that there is no known cure - and it leads to slow deterioration of the affected parts.

Arthritis is caused by a variety of factors including nutritional deficiencies or excesses, poor diet and other factors like pollution or lack of exercise. Improving the diet by lessening the intake of processed foods and eating more fresh fruits and vegetables can help increase your body's immunity and level of antioxidants, which can significantly help combat arthritis and other conditions.

Taking supplements such as fish oils has also been beneficial for arthritis sufferers. But what is the connection between the two? Fish oils are rich in Omega 3. These Omega 3 fatty acids are actually polyunsaturated fats - considered as "good fats." Polyunsaturated fats like DHA and EPA are responsible for the wide range of benefits, including its benefit in managing arthritis.

Traditional treatments for arthritis involve anti-inflammatory drugs like Celebrex, which are notorious for their unwanted side effects (kidney failure and coronary heart disease, for example). Similarly, fatty acids contain a potent anti-inflammatory chemical which can significantly reduce pain and discomfort caused by rheumatoid arthritis. The anti-inflammatory effect of it work differently because they stop pain due to inflammation the natural way, hence, no unwanted side effects.

Aside from relief from arthritis symptoms, fish oil supplements also bring you a wider range of health benefits. It help promote healthier joints by "oiling" them and prevent cartilage and tissue deterioration. Research also suggests that omega 3 fatty acids can stop and reverse the effects of enzymes that bring damage to the cartilage in osteoarthritis sufferers..

Just how much omega 3 do you need for effective relief from symptoms of arthritis? Research suggest that intake of at least 2.7 grams of omega 3 (DHA and/or EPA) per day can reduce joint inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. Make sure your fish oil supplement will provide you with a potent dose that can bring about results.

Arthritis is a seriously debilitating disease, but thanks to the discovered connection between the two, relief from those pains are within reach. Omega 3 fish oils can help manage arthritis without the dangers of side effects traditional medications are reported to bring.

Certain things that we do throughout the day can cause certain strains to our bodies, especially our joints. Things like sport, exercising or carrying heavy objects with the wrong posture can cause massive damage to our bodies. Learn how you can protect your joints with these 5 great tips:

• Keep your body weight at the recommended level for your height. Make sure your Body Mass Index is below 25, because being overweight puts a lot of strain on your body and your joints.

• Exercise can reduce swelling in the joints, but it can also cause impact on the joints. The best way to do this is to participate in exercises that have low impact on the body such as swimming and cycling. They are both great cardio workouts and you will experience great benefits for the body and your health.

• Poor posture can affect our joints very badly, especially when we are sitting or standing or carrying heavy things. Ensure that you practice good posture at all times, this will ensure that your back and your joints are well protected.

• Certain activities are very high risk when it comes to the safety of your joints. Activities such as biking or rollerblading can expose you to joint injury and so ensure that you wear the correct protective clothing. For example, wear knee protectors if you are going to be rollerblading to reduce the risk of injury.

• Ice is a great pain reliever and it helps extremely well when it comes to joints that are swollen. Need I say more?

• Your nutrition will go a long way in protecting your bones and joints. Generally, fruits and vegetables rock because they contain lots of vitamins and minerals for the benefit of your body and your health.