Researchers used advanced genetic analysis to investigate whether omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil could reduce psoriasis risk. By studying genetic data from thousands of people, they found that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the blood were linked to a lower chance of developing psoriasis. The benefit appeared to come mainly from a specific omega-3 called DHA. While these findings are promising and suggest fish oil supplements might help prevent or manage psoriasis, scientists emphasize that more research is needed before making strong recommendations.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil can reduce the risk of developing psoriasis, a skin condition that causes red, itchy patches
  • Who participated: The study didn’t involve direct patient testing. Instead, researchers analyzed genetic information from large databases containing data on thousands of people to look for natural patterns between fatty acid levels and psoriasis
  • Key finding: People with higher omega-3 levels in their blood had about a 10-14% lower risk of developing psoriasis. The omega-3 called DHA showed the strongest protective effect, reducing risk by about 14-21%
  • What it means for you: If you have psoriasis or are at risk for it, eating more fish or taking fish oil supplements containing omega-3s may help. However, this is not yet proven in direct human trials, so talk to your doctor before starting supplements

The Research Details

This study used a special research method called Mendelian randomization, which is like a genetic detective tool. Instead of asking people what they eat and watching if they get psoriasis, researchers looked at genetic variations that naturally affect how much omega-3 fatty acids people have in their blood. They then checked whether people with genes that lead to higher omega-3 levels were less likely to have psoriasis. This approach helps prove cause-and-effect relationships better than regular studies because genes are randomly inherited and don’t change based on lifestyle choices.

The researchers analyzed genetic data from large databases (called GWAS data) that contain information on thousands of people. They tested seven different types of fatty acids: omega-3s, omega-6s, saturated fats, monounsaturated fats, and three specific omega-3 types (DHA, EPA, and DPA). They used multiple statistical methods to check their findings and make sure the results were reliable.

This type of study is valuable because it can suggest true cause-and-effect relationships without the limitations of regular clinical trials. However, it still requires follow-up studies with actual patients to confirm the findings.

Regular studies that just ask people about their diet can be misleading because people who eat fish might also exercise more or have healthier lifestyles overall. Mendelian randomization gets around this problem by using genetics, which are fixed from birth. This makes it stronger evidence that omega-3s themselves—not other healthy habits—might protect against psoriasis. The findings suggest that targeting omega-3 intake could be a practical way to prevent or manage psoriasis.

The study’s main strength is its use of genetic data, which provides strong evidence for cause-and-effect. The researchers tested their findings multiple ways to confirm the results were real. However, the study has limitations: it doesn’t prove that taking fish oil supplements will help real people with psoriasis, and the actual effect size is modest (10-14% risk reduction). The study also couldn’t determine the best dose or which people would benefit most.

What the Results Show

The most important finding was that higher omega-3 fatty acid levels were linked to a 10-14% lower risk of psoriasis. This relationship held up even when researchers adjusted for other factors and used different statistical methods, suggesting it’s a real effect.

DHA, one specific type of omega-3 found in fish, showed the strongest protective effect. People with higher DHA levels had a 14-21% lower risk of psoriasis. This was consistent across different analysis methods, making it the most reliable finding.

Interestingly, EPA and DPA—two other omega-3 types—showed only weak or marginal effects. This suggests that DHA might be the most important omega-3 for psoriasis prevention. Other fatty acids tested (saturated fats, monounsaturated fats, and omega-6s) did not show significant protective effects.

The researchers also performed reverse analyses to check whether psoriasis might cause changes in fatty acid levels (rather than the other way around). These tests suggested the relationship is one-directional: omega-3s appear to protect against psoriasis, not the reverse.

The study tested multiple fatty acid types to understand which ones matter most. While omega-3s showed benefits, saturated fats and monounsaturated fats did not show protective effects against psoriasis. Omega-6 fatty acids also did not demonstrate significant benefits. This specificity—that only omega-3s helped—strengthens the evidence that the effect is real and not just a general benefit of any dietary fat.

Previous research has suggested that omega-3 fatty acids might help with psoriasis, but most studies were small or couldn’t prove cause-and-effect. This genetic study provides stronger evidence for a causal relationship. The finding that DHA is particularly important aligns with some earlier clinical observations showing that DHA levels improve alongside psoriasis improvement. However, this is the first large-scale genetic study to systematically test multiple fatty acids and confirm omega-3s as specifically protective.

The study has several important limitations. First, it analyzed genetic data rather than testing actual people taking fish oil supplements, so we don’t know if supplements would work as well as the genetics suggest. Second, the protective effect is modest—about 10-14% risk reduction—which means omega-3s are helpful but not a complete solution. Third, the study couldn’t identify which people would benefit most or what the ideal dose would be. Fourth, the study population was primarily of European ancestry, so results may not apply equally to other ethnic groups. Finally, this research suggests a relationship but cannot replace clinical trials testing fish oil supplements directly in psoriasis patients.

The Bottom Line

Based on this genetic evidence, eating fish rich in omega-3s (like salmon, mackerel, and sardines) 2-3 times per week may help reduce psoriasis risk. For those who don’t eat fish, fish oil supplements containing DHA may be worth discussing with a doctor. However, this is moderate-strength evidence from genetic analysis, not yet proven in direct patient trials. People with existing psoriasis should not replace their current treatment with fish oil without consulting their dermatologist.

This research is most relevant for people with a family history of psoriasis who want to prevent the condition, and for people with mild psoriasis looking for additional management strategies. It’s less relevant for people without psoriasis risk factors. Anyone considering fish oil supplements should consult their doctor first, especially those taking blood thinners or other medications, as fish oil can interact with certain drugs.

If omega-3s do help, benefits would likely take weeks to months to appear, not days. Most skin conditions improve gradually. You would need to maintain consistent omega-3 intake to see sustained benefits. This is a long-term dietary strategy, not a quick fix.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track weekly fish consumption (servings of salmon, mackerel, sardines, or other omega-3 rich fish) and any changes in psoriasis symptoms (redness, itching, scaling) using a 1-10 severity scale. Record this weekly for at least 8-12 weeks to see patterns.
  • Add one fish meal per week containing omega-3 rich fish, or start a fish oil supplement (1000-2000mg daily of combined EPA+DHA) after consulting your doctor. Set a weekly reminder to track both your fish intake and any skin changes.
  • Use the app to log fish meals and supplement intake daily, and rate psoriasis severity weekly. Create a simple chart showing the relationship between omega-3 intake and symptom changes over 3-6 months. Share this data with your dermatologist to determine if the strategy is working for you personally.

This research provides genetic evidence suggesting omega-3 fatty acids may reduce psoriasis risk, but it is not yet proven in direct human trials. This information is educational and should not replace professional medical advice. Before starting fish oil supplements or making significant dietary changes, especially if you have psoriasis, take medications, or have bleeding disorders, consult your doctor or dermatologist. Fish oil can interact with blood thinners and other medications. This study suggests a potential benefit but cannot be used to diagnose, treat, or cure psoriasis. Always work with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive psoriasis management plan.