Question
I'll briefly introduce myself and history. I'm a very active male who bikes, swims, and performs moderate weight training on a regular basis.
I quit smoking roughly 1.5 years ago, and began this exercise routine.  I swim a mile once a week, routinely bike over 20 miles a day, and do free weight, and weightless exercises (pushups/pullups/core and ab training) once a week. I'm 5.8, a 136lbs, and in by far, the best shape of my life.

Specifically, my issue is such. Over the winter, I would ride stationary bikes at high intensity. I developed a burring ache in my right knee, that has yet to completely withdraw.  Reduction is stress from biking, better seating positioning, and riding outdoors as opposed to stationary bikes have helped reduce the problem. However, I still experience pain and "inflammation" under the knee after hard exercise (biking, free weight lunges).  I understand Omega 3's greatly assist in the reduction of inflammation, but I'm skeptical about what products would be best.

I fear buying "snake oil", or spending good money on products that offer limited or dubious benefits.  I'm hoping from you're experience with inflammatory diseases, you may be able to recommend some good, health, and safe options. Cost isn't necessarily the primary concern as quality is more important here.  My health is worth the extra dollars if need be.

Your help and time is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,
Damon


Answer
Dammon,

The research is almost unanimous about the ability of Omega 3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation. There are many other benefits with omega 3 including your heart and brain.

There are two major sources of omega 3 fatty acids. Fish and vegetable. There are other types of essential oils found in fish besides the omega 3.

If you go the fish based rout then you need to find a product that has been purified to remove heavy metal toxins such as mercury. You also want a product that is enteric coated to keep it from being processed in the stomach. This prevents burping up a fish taste.

I take an omega 3 supplement every day.

Here is a link with some more information.
http://arthritis-symptom.com/alternativel-arthritis-treatments/omega-3-fatty-aci...

Rusty