The Impact of Long-Chain Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation on Body Composition, Strength, and Power in Collegiate Athletes

Abstract

Introduction: Recent evidence suggests that long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC n-3) supplementation may enhance training adaptations associated with athletic performance. This study examined the impact of LC n-3 supplementation on body composition, strength, and power in collegiate athletes. Methods: Athletes (n = 27) were assigned to one of two conditions for eight weeks: fish oil (FO, 3.0 g∙d-1 [1.75g EPA and 1.1g DHA], n = 15) or placebo (PL, high-oleic safflower oil, 3g, n = 12) for 8-weeks. Athletes completed a three-day food log and questionnaire, provided a blood sample via fingerstick to determine their LC n-3 status, conducted body composition analysis through dual energy x-ray absorptiometry, and had their handgrip strength (HGS) and countermovement jump assessed. Results: In the FO group, the omega-3 index, EPA and DHA increased by 73%, 332% and 64%, respectively, while there was no change in the placebo group. HGS significantly improved in the FO group (p = .018, +9.1%) and did not change in the placebo group (p = .615, -1.8%). Body composition and power were similar between groups. The change in HGS was positively correlated with the relative change in EPA and EPA:AA ratio. Conclusions: For in-season athletes, the addition of LC n-3 supplementation to a dietary regime increases blood LC n-3 status and may preserve or improve muscular performance while in-season.

The Impact of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation on Singing Training in Vocal Performers: A Non-Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study

“…Regarding overall body composition changes, unlike previous studies that demonstrated lean mass gain in participants that were provided omega-3 PUFA supplementation [25,26,29], we found no significant difference between groups. Concerning this null finding, overall protein intake may have had an effect.…”

“…For lean mass accretion to occur, the general recommendation for protein consumption is 1.2-2.0 g/kg per day; therefore, the potential for the supplemented group to gain lean mass may have been impaired due to inadequate protein intake [82,83]. However, reductions in fat mass in the supplement group, though not statistically significant (p = 0.168), are supported by other studies that have found that omega-3 PUFAs promote loss of body fat over time [25,29].…”

“…Participants were allocated in a double-blind manner to receive either 3.0 g of omega-3 PUFAs/day (Nordic Naturals ® ) or 3.0 g of placebo/day (safflower oil, NOW ® ) for 10 weeks. The placebo selected is commonly used in omega-3 PUFA intervention trials [30,46]. Allocation concealment was achieved using identical opaque containers, filled by research assistants.…”

“…The anabolic response may be supported via the incorporation of EPA and DHA into the skeletal muscle phospholipid membranes [28]. A recent case study in student athletes found similar results regarding lean mass gains [29]. Additionally, there is limited evidence that suggests that omega-3 PUFA supplementation promotes strength gains over time [30][31][32], which could result in greater respiratory support in singers.…”