Abstract
Many studies indicated that increased intakes of ω-3 fatty acids could positively impact the progression of metabolic syndrome (MS). This study aimed to characterize the clinical and biochemical changes initiated by a low-dose flaxseed oil supplementation upon the evolution of metabolic syndrome in men without adequate medical treatment. In a double blind, randomized study, middle-aged men with metabolic syndrome, who were not able to follow the prescribed medical treatment, were assigned to either a group receiving daily 2.4 g flaxseed oil, or the same amount of corn oil, for 90 days, respectively. Analysis of variance, logistic, and bivariate fit analyses were used to describe the statistical significance of parameters changed by either treatment (within and between group comparisons), between the start and end of treatment. While none of the five diagnostic criteria for MS were differently altered between groups and time points, changes in body mass index (BMI) and insulin resistance were significantly correlated with the treatment received. Subjects receiving flaxseed oil registered no increase in BMI, as compared to an increased BMI registered in the corn oil group (+1.12 ± 0.63, p 0.05 ratios between start and end of study, respectively). The analysis of total serum fatty acid profiles indicated, among other changes, significance for time-treatment interaction for serum 11-eicosenoic acid (p<0.05). Other correlations on inflammation markers associated with MS are reported. In conclusion, low daily doses of flaxseed oil may improve clinical and metabolic parameters in middle-aged men without adequate treatment for metabolic syndrome.
Highlights
Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a common metabolic disorder with increasing prevalence all over the world [1]
Human and animal studies indicated that increased dietary intakes or supplementation with marine or plant derived ω-3 fatty acids are inversely correlated with the presence of MS [5]
There is conflicting evidence regarding the specific role of ALA, eicosapentaenoic (EPA), and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids on decreasing insulin resistance, and regarding their influence on inflammatory cytokine modulation. [10]
Summary
Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a common metabolic disorder with increasing prevalence all over the world [1]. MS is directly correlated with the development of obesity, and represents a major contributor in the development of cardiovascular diseases and type II diabetes [2]. While the drug therapy is relatively accessible in developed countries, MS patients in underdeveloped and developing countries often do not have adequate access to medical care, or their poor socio-economic status does not allow them to purchase and follow the prescribed medication [4]. Human and animal studies indicated that increased dietary intakes or supplementation with marine or plant derived ω-3 fatty acids are inversely correlated with the presence of MS [5]. Polyunsaturated n-3 fatty acids may improve defects in insulin signaling, and prevent alterations in glucose homeostasis and the further development of type II diabetes [78]. There is conflicting evidence regarding the specific role of ALA, eicosapentaenoic (EPA), and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids on decreasing insulin resistance, and regarding their influence on inflammatory cytokine modulation. [10]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
