The Effect of Varying Fatty Acid Composition on Postprandial Airway Inflammation, Pulmonary Function, and Airway Resistance in Healthy, Young Adults

Abstract

The Western Diet commonly consists of high-fat meals (HFMs) with saturated fats (SF) and increased omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (O6FA) to omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (O3FA) ratios. Even a single high-fat meal (HFM) may increase airway inflammation assessed via exhaled nitric oxide (eNO). When HFMs are consumed chronically, persistent airway inflammation may lead to deleterious structural changes in the airways, decrease pulmonary function, and increase the risk of respiratory disease development. Objective To examine the effect of varying fatty acid composition in a HFM on eNO, pulmonary function, and airway resistance. Methods Fifteen individuals [6 M/9 F; 21.9 ± 1.5 years old] each completed three HFM conditions {SF, O6FA, and O3FA; 12 kcal/kg body weight, 63% total fat, and 0.72 g/kg sugar smoothies} in random order separated by at least 48 h. Airway inflammation assessed via eNO, pulmonary function measured using the maximum flow volume loop (MFVL) and airway resistance measured using impulse oscillometry (iOS) were taken at baseline, 2h and 4h postprandially. Results There was no difference in eNO or iOS across time in any condition or between conditions (p > 0.05). There was a significant time by condition effect for FEV1 post-HFM in the SF and O6FA conditions (p < 0.05). Conclusion Different fatty acid compositions do not increase eNO or iOS in healthy, college-aged participants after consumption of a HFM, though the minimally processed meals with fruit added may contribute to these findings.