Multiple mechanisms can explain these results
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According to the study's authors, their findings could be explained by many biological mechanisms. Doctor Costenbader explained that "activated vitamin D enters the nucleus and binds the vitamin D receptor, regulating a large array of vitamin D-responsive genes, many of which are involved in both innate and adaptive immune system function. There are many well-known immunomodulatory actions of vitamin D, including potentially beneficial effects on B and T lymphocytes, macrophages, monocytes, dendritic cells, etc."
She added- "Similarly for marine omega-3 fatty acids (fish oils), there are many well-known anti-inflammatory and 'pro-resolving' mechanisms, including downregulation of inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, and upregulation of 'specialize[d] pro-resolving mediators,' including the resolvins, protectins, maresins, and lipoxins, that act to 'mop up' after inflammation and definitely could be responsible for reducing new-onset autoimmune disease."
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Researchers now believe that supplementing with vitamin D and fish oil can help reduce the incidence of autoimmune diseases
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A few limitations were pointed out in the research. They suggest that their findings may not apply to younger people because they conducted most of their research on older people. Dr. Costenbader went on to say, "We studied only one dose and formulation of each supplement, so we cannot address other doses or formulations. We [also] do not yet know about effectiveness among people at especially high risk by virtue of family history or early signs and symptoms."
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Omega-3 fatty acids are as essential as vitamin D
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Inflammation is reduced, the heart is healthier, and the brain is healthier when omega-3 fatty acids are consumed, among other things. Polyunsaturated fats, often known as "good fats," have been hailed for their potential to protect against several chronic diseases, including heart disease and dementia. Cell membranes rely heavily on them, and they remain a hot topic in the scientific community. The omega-3 fatty acid consists of:
- A substance called stearidonic acid (SDA)
- An acid called alpha-linolenic (ALA)
- Isoprenoic acid, an eicosanoids (EPA)
- Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
- Isopropylmyristic acid (DPA)
Humans cannot produce omega-3 fatty acids, so these fatty acids must come from food or supplements. Similarly, even if the human body can produce vitamin D, it requires sunlight and foods rich in this vital nutrient. In both cases, consuming vitamin D and omega-3 fish oil supplements will be beneficial.
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