Compositions for the treatment of symptoms of inflammatory disorders may include gamma-linolenic acid or dihomogammalinolenic acid, an inhibitor of .DELTA..sup.5 desaturase, and optionally stearidonic acid or .omega.-3 arachidonic acid. Preferred formulations may be in the form of a good tasting, preferably milk or fruit based drink, or a dried powder. Compositions reduce inflammation and inhibit increase in serum arachidonic acid associated with gamma-linolenic acid.