Probably not, according to researchers at the University of Edinburgh, in the UK.

First, the details.

• 10 articles (representing 6 unique studies) were included in the review.
• 4 studies compared omega-3 supplements with placebo.
• 2 studies compared omega-6 supplements with placebo.

And, the results.

• There was no evidence of a reduced risk of allergic sensitization.
• There was no evidence of a favorable effect on the immunological profile.
• Meta-analyses on the combined data showed no consistent or clear benefit of omega-3 on atopic eczema, asthma, allergic rhinitis, or food allergy.
• And no benefit of omega-6 on atopic eczema.

The bottom line?
“Supplementation with omega 3 and omega 6 oils is probably unlikely to play an important role as a strategy for the primary prevention of sensitization or allergic disease,” concluded the authors.

The results are contrary to the evidence from basic science and epidemiological studies

4/28/09 21:07 JR