DHA and Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)
A new study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology investigated whether omega-3 fatty acids—particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)—could help protect against interstitial lung disease (ILD). ILD is a group of disorders characterized by progressive lung scarring, which makes breathing difficult and reduces oxygen flow into the bloodstream.
OmegaQuant’s Dr. Bill Harris and colleagues analyzed data from over 10,000 participants across three large studies (MESA, Framingham Heart Study, and AGES Study). They measured blood DHA levels and followed participants for 12 years, assessing ILD-related hospitalizations and deaths.
Key findings:
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Higher DHA levels were associated with lower risk of ILD hospitalization and death.
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Individuals with higher DHA also showed fewer interstitial abnormalities on CT scans.
“The severity of inflammatory disease in the lung appears to be inversely related to blood omega-3 levels,” Dr. Harris explained. “Low DHA levels were linked to increased ILD risk, while higher levels offered protection—especially timely in the context of COVID-19.”
Omega-3s and Asthma Control
Another study, published in Nutrients, explored the role of omega-3s in asthma management. Researchers compared the Omega-3 Index (EPA + DHA in red blood cells) of adults with and without asthma.
Findings:
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Individuals with higher Omega-3 Index values (≥8%) had better asthma control and required lower doses of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS).
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Those with low omega-3 levels were more likely to experience uncontrolled asthma.
This suggests that omega-3s, through their anti-inflammatory effects, may serve as an adjunct therapy for asthma, reducing both symptoms and medication needs.
Omega-3s and the Cytokine Storm in COVID-19
During severe COVID-19 infections, some patients experience a “cytokine storm”, where the immune system overreacts and damages the body’s own tissues.
A paper in Frontiers in Physiology highlighted the potential role of EPA and DHA in modulating this response. These omega-3s may:
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Help prevent overactivation of the immune system
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Support a balanced (“Goldilocks”) immune response — not too strong, not too weak
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Produce specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), which actively promote healing after inflammation
This research suggests that omega-3 supplementation could act as both a supportive therapy and preventive strategy for COVID-related complications.
Omega-3s and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)
One of the most serious outcomes of COVID-19 is ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome), which often requires ventilator support.
A meta-analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials found that critically ill ARDS patients who received omega-3-enriched enteral diets showed:
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Improved oxygenation (PaO₂/FiO₂ ratio)
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Potential reductions in ICU stay and duration of mechanical ventilation
Although results are mixed, the evidence indicates that omega-3s may offer meaningful support in critical care settings.
Omega-3s for Immune Health: Broader Recommendations
Top nutrition and immunology researchers have emphasized the role of dietary supplements in supporting immunity, particularly during the pandemic. Their recommendations include:
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Supplementation with vitamins A, B, C, D, E, folate, zinc, selenium, magnesium, copper, and omega-3 fatty acids
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Daily omega-3 intake of at least 250 mg of EPA and DHA, with higher intakes encouraged to achieve an Omega-3 Index of 8–12%
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Public health strategies that incorporate nutrition to improve population-wide immune resilience
Takeaway: Omega-3s as Anti-Inflammatory Allies for the Lungs
From ILD and asthma to COVID-19 and ARDS, research consistently shows that omega-3s—especially EPA and DHA—play a protective role in lung health and immune balance.
By maintaining an optimal Omega-3 Index, individuals may benefit from:
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Reduced lung inflammation
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Better asthma control
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Protection against immune overreaction
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Stronger recovery from respiratory illness
Omega-3s are not just heart- and brain-friendly—they may be one of the most important nutritional tools for respiratory health in today’s world.