Omega-3s May Help Protect Kidneys From Fibrosis by Boosting Cellular Cleanup Process
This laboratory and animal study looked at how omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) affect kidney scarring (fibrosis) caused by urinary tract blockage, a model researchers use to study chronic kidney disease.
In human kidney cells exposed to a fibrosis-triggering protein, DHA and EPA reduced the harmful cell changes linked to scarring by activating a cellular energy sensor (AMPK) and increasing ‘autophagy flux’—the process cells use to clear out damaged components.
In mice with a surgically blocked ureter, those given omega-3s showed less oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis in their kidneys compared to untreated mice, along with higher markers of active autophagy and lower markers of blocked autophagy.
What this means for you
These early-stage cell and animal findings suggest omega-3 fatty acids may support the kidney’s natural cellular cleanup and stress-response systems, but this research does not show that omega-3 supplements treat or prevent kidney disease in people—more human research is needed.
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Start the ALP ProtocolThis summary is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always talk to your healthcare provider before making changes to your supplement routine.