Pharmaconutrition with Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Status Quo and Further Perspectives

Axel   R.   Heller

Abstract

Beneficial rapid onset effects of omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil on host defense compensatory fit into the comprehensive pathophysiology of critical illness. Because of balanced pro- and anti-inflammatory effects on a variety of host defense subsystems even septic patients had earlier recovery and improved survival. This review focuses in a compressed view on the beneficial aspects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on diverse organ functions, host defense and on balanced pro - and anti-inflammatory effects. Clinical impact of fish oil based pharmaconutrition during critical inflammation processes and immune response in humans is thoroughly discussed.

Keywords: Nutrition, fish oil, immunity, acute phase response, omega-3 fatty acids, intensive care medicine, critical illness, lung injury