omega-6 : omega-3 ratios

Nutrition Q&A [Moderated]
1

Is there anything to minimizing the Omega-6 levels in one’s Omega-6 : Omega-3 ratio?

Am looking for ways to reduce arthritic discomfort without resorting to biologics and keep coming across references to William Lands’ research.

This is fairly typical of what I’ve been coming across:

Excessive amounts of omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and a very high omega-6/omega-3 ratio, as is found in today’s Western diets, promote the pathogenesis of many diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, whereas increased levels of omega-3 PUFA (a low omega-6/omega-3 ratio) exert suppressive effects. In the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease, a ratio of 4/1 was associated with a 70% decrease in total mortality. A ratio of 2.5/1 reduced rectal cell proliferation in patients with colorectal cancer, whereas a ratio of 4/1 with the same amount of omega-3 PUFA had no effect. The lower omega-6/omega-3 ratio in women with breast cancer was associated with decreased risk. A ratio of 2-3/1 suppressed inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, and a ratio of 5/1 had a beneficial effect on patients with asthma, whereas a ratio of 10/1 had adverse consequences.

I get a bit skeptical when I see “swiss army knife” cure-alls, but found his presentation interesting (starts ~12:40)

thanks!

2

It would be more productive to focus on the food sources and general dietary pattern, rather than these ratios.

Increasing omega 3 PUFA intake (e.g., from salmon and other marine sources) is a healthful strategy that we recommend.

Decreasing omega-6 PUFA intake on its own does not influence inflammation, cardiovascular, or autoimmune disease. There may be certain foods or dietary patterns that confer harm, such as diets high in hyper-processed/hyper-palatable foods, but these effects do not appear to be mediated by the n-6 PUFA itself.

We have an article and podcast (episode 76) that discuss these topics further, and another very thorough discussion of this topic can be found here: https://www.alineanutrition.com/2020…pseudoscience/

3

Great links, Dr. Baraki – thanks!

They were right about your explanation on cholesterol.

Information certainly pointed out my many misunderstandings, misconceptions and biases.

Looking forward to the BBM book on nutrition – this content really made clear how much I have to learn.

Thanks! very much.

Best - Be well!
mk