Dietary Omega-6 to Omega-3 Fatty Acids Ratio is Correlated with High Molecular Weight Adiponectin Level in Indonesian Office Workers

Abstract

Context: Adiponectin is an adipokine that is secreted by adipocytes and acts to prevent obesity and obesity-related disorders. The high ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in modern dietary habits in working-age populations, urban areas in particular, is known to play a role in adiponectin secretion. However, previous studies showed inconclusive results. Aim: The study aims to determine the association of the dietary omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids ratio with adiponectin levels in office workers in Jakarta, Indonesia. Settings and Design: This cross-sectional study included 55 office workers in East Jakarta, Indonesia. Methods: Data were collected via questionnaire, 3-day food record, anthropometric measurement, and serum collection. Statistical analysis used: Independent t test was applied to assess the relationship between subjects characteristics and dietary intake with high molecular weight adiponectin levels. Association of dietary omega-6/omega-3 fatty acids ratio and adiponectin were evaluated using Pearson correlation test (P < 0.05). Results: There is no statistically significant difference in adiponectin levels based on waist circumference category, as well as categories of physical activity, household income levels, total energy, and total fat intake. Conversely, in female subjects (P = 0.000), subjects with normal body mass index (P = 0.000), higher education levels (P = 0.031), and nonsmoking subjects (P = 0.019), significantly higher adiponectin levels are obtained. The ratio of dietary omega-6/omega-3 fatty acids is negatively correlated with adiponectin (P = 0.004, r = –0.383). Conclusions: The decrease in the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 fatty acids is inversely related to higher level of adiponectin, indicating that dietary changes may potentially play a role in prevention strategies for obesity and obesity-related diseases.