A randomised clinical trial in adults with type 2 asthma, published in 2025 in the Marine drugs study, assessed the effect of a salmon oil rich in EPA and DHA on asthma attacks for 20 weeks. It involved 66 people, all on inhaled therapy, who took either salmon oil capsules or placebo without knowing which they were receiving.
The results showed that the frequency of exacerbations was very similar between groups, although the time to first attack was slightly longer in those taking salmon oil. There were no clear differences in lung function or overall asthma control, but the supplement was well tolerated and opened the door for further research into how omega-3s can modulate respiratory inflammation.
Exploratory trial in type 2 asthma provides nuance on efficacy
The study focused on people with type 2 asthma, a form dominated by eosinophils, a type of white blood cell associated with allergic inflammation. For 20 weeks, participants took either 6 grams a day of an unrefined salmon oil, with daily EPA and DHA, or a placebo oil with no activity on eosinophils.
The main objective was to count moderate and severe exacerbations, combining daily symptoms, need for rescue medication and use of oral corticosteroids. No significant differences were observed in the number of attacks or respiratory function between groups. There was a trend towards more days without exacerbations and a slightly longer time to first attack in the salmon oil group, a modest effect that the authors consider interesting for future trials with more participants.
EPA and DHA omega-3s play a role in the resolution of respiratory inflammation
The interest in salmon oil in asthma is due to its content of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, mainly EPA, eicosapentaenoic acid, and DHA, docosahexaenoic acid. The body uses these lipids as a raw material to manufacture pre-resolving mediators, such as resolvins and protectins, which help to quench inflammation once their function has been fulfilled.
In type 2 asthma, chronic airway inflammation is associated with elevated levels of eosinophils and cytokines such as IL 4, IL 5 and IL 13. Mediators derived from EPA and DHA may help eosinophils to be removed in time and the respiratory mucosa to regain its balance. Previous studies with the same salmon oil in cells and in animal models showed more eosinophil apoptosis and less inflammatory infiltration, supporting this regulatory role, although in humans the clinical results are still modest.
Daily habits that support respiratory health and balanced inflammation
Beyond any supplementation, asthma and respiratory health management relies on a solid foundation of habits. Maintaining prescribed inhaled therapy, avoiding active and passive smoking and reducing exposure to known allergens are cornerstones for reducing the inflammatory burden on the airways.
In terms of lifestyle, a diet rich in oily fish, fruit, vegetables and olive oil provides unsaturated fats and antioxidants that are associated with more balanced inflammatory profiles. Regular exercise, adapted to respiratory capacity, helps to improve lung function and weight control, a factor that also influences asthma. Sufficient rest and stress management complete this approach, as the immune system responds best when the body maintains stable rhythms.
OMEGA 3 EPA 400 mg + DHA 300 mg from Nutribiolite as evidence-consistent support for omega-3s
Although the salmon oil trial focused on people with type 2 asthma, its main message is clear, omega-3 EPA and DHA are involved in the regulation of inflammation and mucosal stability, including respiratory stability. This inflammatory axis is also relevant for adults who want to take care of their overall balance, beyond a specific diagnosis.
In this context, a supplement such as OMEGA 3 EPA 400 mg + DHA 300 mg from Nutribiolite is aligned with the same family of nutrients studied, the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. Its focus is on providing concentrated amounts of these marine lipids, which the body integrates into cell membranes and uses as the basis for mediators that support a more orderly inflammatory environment. It is designed for adults who already take care of their diet and physical activity and want additional physiological support with marine omega-3s.
Nutribiolite OMEGA 3 EPA 400 mg + DHA 300 mg offers a concentrated supply of marine omega 3 for adults seeking physiological support for their inflammatory processes and daily well-being.
What we can take away from the study for everyday life
The salmon oil trial did not show a clear reduction in asthma attacks, but it did confirm that continued EPA and DHA intake is safe in adults with type 2 asthma and may be associated with more exacerbation-free days. The prudent interpretation is that omega-3s are a potential support within a comprehensive plan, not a substitute for medical treatment or a stand-alone solution.
For everyday life, the message is twofold. On the one hand, taking care of respiratory health involves a combination of treatment, habits and a diet rich in healthy fats. On the other hand, omega 3 supplements such as OMEGA 3 EPA 400 mg + DHA 300 mg from Nutribiolite can be used as a physiological reinforcement for those who wish to ensure an adequate intake of EPA and DHA in their routine. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of a healthcare professional.
Frequently asked questions
What did the salmon oil trial in adults with type 2 asthma provide?
The trial showed that a salmon oil rich in EPA and DHA was safe and well tolerated for 20 weeks. It did not clearly reduce attacks, but there was a trend towards more days without exacerbations and a slightly later onset of the first attack.
What does it mean that omega-3s play a role in the resolution of inflammation?
The resolution of inflammation is the phase in which the body shuts down the inflammatory response and repairs tissues. Mediators are formed from EPA and DHA that help remove inflammatory cells and return the respiratory mucosa to a more stable state.
Every adult can benefit from extra EPA and DHA omega-3s.
Many people consume little oily fish and their intake of EPA and DHA is limited. In these cases, an omega-3 supplement may be a practical way to ensure a steady supply of these marine fatty acids as part of a healthy lifestyle.
How OMEGA 3 EPA 400 mg + DHA 300 mg fits in with the evidence on salmon oil
The trial was conducted with a salmon oil providing EPA and DHA, the same types of omega-3s sought in OMEGA 3 EPA 400 mg + DHA 300 mg. Both rely on the same family of marine nutrients that the body uses to modulate inflammatory processes.
Is taking omega 3 enough to manage asthma or respiratory health?
No, asthma always requires a medical approach and a personalised treatment plan. Omega-3s can be considered as a complementary nutritional support within a lifestyle that includes prescribed medication, a balanced diet and habits that protect the airways.
