Benefits Of Omega-3 Fatty Acids Research Articles

Recent applications and prospects of omega-3 fatty acids: A bibliometric study and visualization analysis in 2014–2023

Omega-3 fatty acids are indispensable and crucial nutrients that are pivotal in promoting cardiovascular well-being, enhancing cognitive function, and regulating the body's inflammatory response. This study employed bibliometric analysis to investigate the progression of omega-3 fatty acids research. We used the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) to find articles about omega-3 fatty acids published from January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2023. The bibliometric analysis and visualization were conducted using VOSviewer and CiteSpace. This analysis contained a total of 18,764 articles that were focused on omega-3 fatty acids. Among these articles, the nations with the highest number of publications were the United States, China, and Spain. The United States held the greatest influence. The journal Nutrients had the most publications related to this search. Upon analyzing the highly referenced literature, we discovered there is ongoing debate on the potential benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids for illnesses. Moreover, the time-overlapping network analysis of keywords finds investigating the impact of omega-3 fatty acids dietary supplementation on gut microbiota is a promising area of future research. Ultimately, bibliometrics could help researchers comprehend the trajectory of development, noticeable topics, and scholarly impact within omega-3 fatty acids linked domains, thereby offering substantial backing for future investigations of greater depth.

Abstract 14108: Eicosapentaenoic Acid and Docosahexaenoic Acid and Their Association With Oral Inflammatory Markers in Subjects With Clinical Coronary Artery Disease

Background: Our group previously reported that subjects with coronary artery disease (CAD) randomized to the omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), had lower levels of blood inflammatory markers and prevention of progression of non-calcified coronary plaque. Macrophage inhibitory protein (MIP)-1β is an inflammatory chemokine expressed by T cells in human plaques; circulating levels are increased in patients with atherosclerosis. The relation between EPA+DHA supplementation and oral inflammatory markers is unclear. Aim: To determine if EPA+DHA supplementation lowers levels of oral inflammatory markers. Methods: Subjects with clinical CAD were randomized to EPA+DHA, 3.36 g daily, or none for 30 months; 199 underwent a dental exam. Gingival crevicular fluid was collected at baseline and 30 months and analyzed for inflammatory markers. Results: MIP-1-β level was significantly lower in the EPA+DHA group compared to control at 30 months in the left upper quadrant of the mouth but not in the right upper quadrant (Table). This difference could potentially be explained by handedness. For example, Right-handed people tend to brush the left side of the mouth better whereas left-handed individuals and ambidextrous individuals have better brushing skills on the right side of the mouth. Other inflammatory markers (MCP, TNF-a, IL-1 and IL-6) were not different between groups on either side. Conclusions: Subjects with CAD randomized to EPA+DHA had reduced levels of the oral inflammatory marker, MIP-1β, at 30 months, suggesting that EPA+DHA can confer oral health benefits in addition to lowering systemic inflammation. For greatest benefit, brushing equally on both sides of the mouth should be encouraged, for which a powered toothbrush can help as it doesn’t rely on manual dexterity and handedness. Future research should examine whether the benefit of omega-3 fatty acids on oral health increases the benefit on coronary plaque.

Long Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Their Role in COVID 19-associated Inflammation and Dysbiosis

The COVID-19 pandemic has been an on-going global health problem since it started more than three years ago. Efficient treatment and its emerging long-term effects remain unresolved. The primary cause of COVID-19 deaths is the excessive immune response resulting in a cytokine storm leading to eventual organ failure. Dysbiosis has been observed in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2, promoting further inflammation and increasing risks for long COVID. Most of the current treatments for COVID-19 including vaccines are directed against the virus and its replication. However, these treatments need to be administered before viral infection (in the case of vaccines) or early in the infection process. Moreover, these treatments do not address the inflammatory phase of the disease, where cytokine storm increases the risk of death or may be a significant contributor to long COVID. Omega-3 fatty acids which are components of cell membranes are known to be precursors of anti-inflammatory compounds and aid in the regulation of the human microbiome. This article presents a hypothesis that posits the role of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in modulating COVID-19 inflammation via the regulation of the lung and gut microbiomes, which have been associated with the body's immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection. With known safety and benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, supplementation may be effective in preventing severe COVID-19 symptoms, managing mild and moderate symptoms, and may even extend post-recovery to mitigate increased risk for cardiovascular diseases after SARS-CoV-2 infection and recovery.

A modular systematic review of antenatal interventions to address undernutrition during pregnancy in the prevention of low birth weight

BackgroundPoor nutrition during pregnancy can lead to adverse birth outcomes including low birth weight (LBW). ObjectiveThis modular systematic review aimed to provide evidence for the effects of seven antenatal nutritional interventions on the risks of LBW, preterm birth (PTB), small-for-gestational-age (SGA) and stillbirth (SB). MethodsWe searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and CINAHL Complete between April and June 2020, with a further update in September 2022 (Embase only). We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and reviews of RCTs to estimate the effect sizes of the selected interventions on the four birth outcomes. ResultsEvidence suggests that balanced protein and energy (BPE) supplementation for pregnant women with undernutrition can reduce the risk of LBW, SGA and SB. Evidence from low and lower middle-income countries (MIC) suggests that multiple micronutrient (MMN) supplementation can reduce the risk of LBW and SGA in comparison with iron or iron and folic acid supplementation and lipid-based nutrient supplements (LNS) with any quantity of energy can reduce the risk of LBW in comparison with MMN supplementation. Evidence from high and upper MIC suggests that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids (O3FA) can reduce the risk and supplementation with high-dose calcium might possibly reduce the risk of LBW and PTB. Antenatal dietary education programs might possibly reduce the risk of LBW in comparison with standard-of-care. No RCTs were identified for monitoring weight gain followed by interventions to support weight gain in women who are underweight. ConclusionsProvision of BPE, MMN and LNS to pregnant women in populations with undernutrition can reduce the risk of LBW and related outcomes. The benefits of O3FA and calcium supplementation to this population require further investigation. Targeting interventions to pregnant women who are not gaining weight has not been tested with RCTs.

A systematic review on immunity functionalities and nutritional food recommendations to develop immunity against viral infection

Immunity plays a fundamental role in the maintenance and protection of the human body from infectious and pathogenic microorganisms. It requires regular intake of nutrients for proper functioning of the immune system. Due to an unbalanced lifestyle and consumption of ready-to-eat foods, immunity is being affected negatively. Inflammation and immunity are influenced by diet and nutrition. Simple sugars, trans fats, refined carbs, and processed meat, among other meals, may induce inflammation while simultaneously counteracting the anti-inflammatory benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. As a result, unhealthy food intake may enhance systemic inflammation in individuals, boosting the generation of IL-6. Dietary nutrition is a well-known aspect of immune system maintenance, with the significance of micronutrients prominently featured in a variety of scientific literary works. Currently, global population is susceptible viral infection such as COVID-19. This viral strain is directly attacking the immunity of the individual and bringing it at risk. When a patient's immune system isn't operating correctly, COVID-19 is thought to raise the harshness of the infection or make it more vulnerable to contagious diseases. This review paper will help in understanding the immune responses mechanism along with diet balance and maintaining the sufficiency of vitamins and minerals to fight against COVID-19 infection.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes: a Review of Recent Evidence.

Omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 FA) lower triglycerides, have anti-inflammatory properties, and improve metabolism. Clinical evidence of cardiovascular benefit with omega-3 fatty acids is mixed. We discuss mechanisms providing biological plausibility of benefit of omega-3 fatty acids in cardiovascular risk reduction and review clinical trials investigating the benefits of prescription omega-3 fatty acids in dyslipidemia, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), and diabetes. Although early trials showed no benefit of omega-3 fatty acids in ASCVD, the REDUCE-IT trial noted significant risk reduction in ASCVD events with highly purifiedEPA (icosapent ethyl) use which has changed the landscape for currently available therapeutic options. However, other large trials like STRENGTH and VITAL, which used different formulations of prescription omega-3 fatty acids, did not note significant cardiovascular risk reduction. Thus the effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acids for cardiovascular disease prevention is an ongoing topic of debate. A relative paucity of studies examining benefits for glycemic outcomes in persons with diabetes exists; however, fewstudies have suggested lack of benefit to date. Significant residual cardiovascular risk exists for individuals with hypertriglyceridemia. Prescription omega-3 fatty acids are more commonly used for CV risk reduction in these patients. Clinical guideline statements now recommend icosapent ethyl use for selected individuals with hypertriglyceridemia to reduce cardiovascular eventsgiven recent evidence from theREDUCE-IT trial. Nonetheless, data from other large scale trials has been mixed, and future research is needed to better understand how different preparations of omega-3 may differ in their cardiovascular and metabolic effects, and the mechanisms for their benefit.

Nutrition and Supplementation in Ulcerative Colitis.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) belongs to the group of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). UC is an incurable, diffuse, and chronic inflammatory process of the colonic mucosa with alternating periods of exacerbation and remission. This review aimed to analyze the scientific research conducted to date to determine what impact different nutritional plans and dietary supplements may have on the course of UC. The latest 98 articles about nutrition and supplementation in ulcerative colitis were used to prepare the work. Certain components in food can greatly influence the course of UC, inducing changes in the composition and function of the gut microbiome. This activity may be an important part of therapy for people with IBD. The Mediterranean diet has shown the most promising results in the treatment of patients with UC due to its high content of biologically active foods. Patients with UC may benefit from the UC Exclusion Diet (UCED); however, it is a new nutritional plan that requires further research. Patents frequently resort to unconventional diets, which, because of their frequent elimination of nutrient-rich foods, can worsen the health and nutritional status of those who follow them. The benefits of omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics supplementation may have additional therapeutic effects; however, the evidence is not unequivocal.

Effect of omega-3 fatty acid on contrast-induced nephropathy

Abstract. Renal failure that develops acutely after the use of iodinated contrast material is called "contrast-induced nephropathy". It is a complication with high morbidity and mortality risk. Current treatments are aimed at protecting kidney functions, new treatment methods are being researched. This study aims to demonstrate the therapeutic effects of omega-3 fatty acids on CIN, taking into account the possible clinical usage of iodinated contrast media and the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids.
 Methods. A total of 30 rats were studied, divided into four groups. Only saline was administered by gavage to group 1, only IV urography to group 2, only 400 mg omega-3 to group 3, and urography and 400 mg omega-3 to group 4. At the end of the study, kidney tissue and serum oxidative and antioxidant markers, and creatinine levels were analyzed.
 Result. While the degrees of glutathione peroxidase, catalase and total antioxidant capacity in kidney tissue and serum tests of rats treated with omega-3 fatty acid increased statistically; total oxidant capacity and malondialdehyde levels were found to be significantly lower. Furthermore, blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels were found to be significantly lower in the omega-3 treated group.
 Conclusion. Omega-3 fatty acids had therapeutic effects in the experimental CIN model. As a result, we believe omega-3 fatty acids can be used as an alternative to existing supportive medicines in this common disease with few therapy options.

Omega 3-rich Camelina sativa oil in the context of a weight loss program improves glucose homeostasis, inflammation and oxidative stress in patients with NAFLD: A randomised placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Over the past few years, the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids have been reported in the management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) complications.This study evaluated the effects of Camelina sativa oil (CSO) supplementation as one of the richest dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids on glucose homeostasis,inflammation, metabolic endotoxemia, and oxidative stress in NAFLD patients. A total of 46 patients with NAFLD were allocated to either an intervention (20g/d CSO) or placebo (20g/d sunflower oil) group receiving a calorie-restricted diet for 12weeks. Fasting plasma levels of glycemic indices, hs-CRP, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), antioxidant enzymes activity, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (8-iso-PGF2α), and uric acid were measured at baseline and post-intervention. The CSO supplementation led to significant differences in insulin concentration, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), hs-CRP, LPS, TAC, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, MDA and 8-iso-PGF2α between the two groups at end of the study (ANCOVA, P<.05). Hs-CRP decreased significantly in both groups (pair-t-test, P<.05). Insulin concentration, quantitative insulin sensitivity check index, LPS, TAC, SOD, glutathione peroxidase activity, MDA and 8-iso-PGF2α changed significantly only in CSO group (P<.05). These findings indicate that CSO may improve glycemia, inflammation, metabolic endotoxemia, and oxidative stress status in patients with NAFLD.

Do Omega-3 Fatty Acids Benefit Health?

Do Omega-3 Fatty Acids Benefit Health?

Omega 3 Fatty Acids and COVID-19: A Comprehensive Review.

The rapid international spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 responsible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has posed a global health emergency in 2020. It has affected over 52 million people and led to over 1.29 million deaths worldwide, as of November 13th, 2020. Patients diagnosed with COVID-19 present with symptoms ranging from none to severe and include fever, shortness of breath, dry cough, anosmia, and gastrointestinal abnormalities. Severe complications are largely due to overdrive of the host immune system leading to “cytokine storm”. This results in disseminated intravascular coagulation, acute respiratory distress syndrome, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, and death. Due to its highly infectious nature and concerning mortality rate, every effort has been focused on prevention and creating new medications or repurposing old treatment options to ameliorate the suffering of COVID-19 patients including the immune dysregulation. Omega-3 fatty acids are known to be incorporated throughout the body into the bi-phospholipid layer of the cell membrane leading to the production of less pro-inflammatory mediators compared to other fatty acids that are more prevalent in the Western diet. In this article, the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, especially eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, including their anti-inflammatory, immunomodulating, and possible antiviral effects have been discussed.

Fatty acid composition and tocopherol content of processed marine fish and contribution of omega-3 fatty acids

The present study analysed fatty acid composition and tocopherol content of raw, curried and fried fish. Of the saturated fatty acids, C12:0, C14:0 and C16:0 had significant increase in fried and curried fish than raw fish. Of monounsaturated fatty acids, C18:19c significantly increased in fried and cooked form whereas polyunsaturated fatty acids, C20: 5n3 (EPA) and C22:6n3 (DHA) showed significant decrease in fried and curried fish. In cooked and fried fish there was significant reduction of tocopherol content. There was increase in hypocholesterolaemic and hypercholesterolaemic fatty acid (HH) ratio in fried and curried fish. Fish fried in coconut oil and fish curry in coconut cream were not found to be healthy processing methods and both processing methods lead to significant reduction in potential health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in the fishes.

Recent Clinical Trials Shed New Light on the Cardiovascular Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids.

Three recent clinical trials have demonstrated the benefits of marine omega-3 fatty acids on cardiovascular disease end points. In the Vitamin D and Omega-3 Trial (VITAL), 840 mg/d of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) resulted in a 28% reduced risk for heart attacks, 50% reduced risk for fatal heart attacks, and 17% reduced risk for total coronary heart disease events. In the ASCEND trial (A Study of Cardiovascular Events in Diabetes), cardiovascular disease death was significantly reduced by 19% with 840 mg/d of EPA and DHA. However, the primary composite end points were not significantly reduced in either study. In REDUCE-IT (the Reduction of Cardiovascular Events with Icosapent Ethyl-Intervention Trial), there was a 25% decrease in the primary end point of major cardiovascular events with 4 g/d EPA (icosapent ethyl) in patients with elevated triglycerides (135-499 mg/dL) who also were taking a statin drug. For clinical practice, we now have compelling evidence of the cardiovascular benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. The findings of REDUCE-IT provide a strong rationale for prescribing icosapent ethyl for patients with hypertriglyceridemia who are on a statin. For primary prevention, the goal is to increase the population intake of omega-3 fatty acids to levels currently recommended, which translates to consuming at least one to two servings of fish/seafood per week. For individuals who prefer taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements, recent findings from clinical trials support the benefits for primary prevention.

Icosapent Ethyl Effects on Fatty Acid Profiles in Statin-Treated Patients With High Triglycerides: The Randomized, Placebo-controlled ANCHOR Study.

IntroductionFatty acid content in plasma and red blood cells (RBCs) may provide insight into potential physiologic benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. Icosapent ethyl is a pure prescription form of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) ethyl ester approved by the US Food and Drug Administration at a dose of 4 g/day as an adjunct to diet to reduce triglyceride levels in adults with severe (≥ 500 mg/dl) hypertriglyceridemia.MethodsThis was a prespecified exploratory subset analysis of the ANCHOR study, which randomized 702 statin-treated patients at increased cardiovascular risk with triglycerides 200–499 mg/dl and controlled low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (40–99 mg/dl). This analysis examined effects of icosapent ethyl 4 g/day versus placebo on fatty acid levels in plasma and RBCs using a gas chromatograph assay method with flame ionization detector.ResultsIn plasma, treatment with icosapent ethyl 4 g/day resulted in significant increases versus placebo in the mean concentrations of EPA (+ 635%; P < 0.0001) and its metabolite, docosapentaenoic acid n-3 (+ 143%; P < 0.0001) with no significant change in docosahexaenoic acid. Treatment with icosapent ethyl 4 g/day versus placebo also resulted in significant decreases in the omega-6 fatty acids linoleic acid (− 25%) and arachidonic acid (AA; − 31%), as well as the AA/EPA ratio (− 91%). Icosapent ethyl 4 g/day also decreased the omega-9 fatty acid oleic acid (− 29%) and the saturated fatty acids palmitic acid (− 23%) and stearic acid (− 16%) (all P < 0.0001). Results were similar for RBCs.ConclusionsIcosapent ethyl 4 g/day significantly increased EPA and produced other potentially beneficial shifts in fatty acids in plasma and RBCs versus placebo.Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier, NCT01047501FundingAmarin Pharma Inc.Plain Language SummaryPlain language summary available for this article.

Identification of Novel Acinetobacter baumannii Host Fatty Acid Stress Adaptation Strategies.

Free fatty acids hold important immune-modulatory roles during infection. However, the host's long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, not commonly found in the membranes of bacterial pathogens, also have significant broad-spectrum antibacterial potential. Of these, the omega-6 fatty acid arachidonic acid (AA) and the omega-3 fatty acid decosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are highly abundant; hence, we investigated their effects on the multidrug-resistant human pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii Our analyses reveal that AA and DHA incorporate into the A. baumannii bacterial membrane and impact bacterial fitness and membrane integrity, with DHA having a more pronounced effect. Through transcriptional profiling and mutant analyses, we show that the A. baumannii β-oxidation pathway plays a protective role against AA and DHA, by limiting their incorporation into the phospholipids of the bacterial membrane. Furthermore, our study identified a second bacterial membrane protection system mediated by the AdeIJK efflux system, which modulates the lipid content of the membrane via direct efflux of lipids other than AA and DHA, thereby providing a novel function for this major efflux system in A. baumannii This is the first study to examine the antimicrobial effects of host fatty acids on A. baumannii and highlights the potential of AA and DHA to protect against A. baumannii infections.IMPORTANCE A shift in the Western diet since the industrial revolution has resulted in a dramatic increase in the consumption of omega-6 fatty acids, with a concurrent decrease in the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids. This decrease in omega-3 fatty acid consumption has been associated with significant disease burden, including increased susceptibility to infectious diseases. Here we provide evidence that DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, has superior antimicrobial effects upon the highly drug-resistant pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii, thereby providing insights into one of the potential health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. The identification and characterization of two novel bacterial membrane protective mechanisms against host fatty acids provide important insights into A. baumannii adaptation during disease. Furthermore, we describe a novel role for the major multidrug efflux system AdeIJK in A. baumannii membrane maintenance and lipid transport. This core function, beyond drug efflux, increases the appeal of AdeIJK as a therapeutic target.

The Effects of Omega-3 and Branched-Chain Amino Acids Supplementation on Serum Apoptosis Markers Following Acute Resistance Exercise in Old Men.

The potential benefits of omega-3 fatty acids and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) supplements on exercise-induced apoptosis are not clear. In a crossover randomized study, 11 men (age = 62.8 ± 2.2 years) performed an acute bout of resistance exercise and underwent 1-week supplementation with either 20g of BCAA or 2,700mg of omega-3/day. Subjects performed the same exercise after supplementation protocols. Following a 3-week washout period, subjects switched groups. Circulating levels of soluble Fas ligand (sFasL), cytochrome c, Bax, Bcl-2, and nuclear factor-kappa B were measured before and immediately after exercise sessions. sFasL, cytochrome c, and Bax increased after exercise. Simple main effect of time on sFasl was significant in control trial but not in omega-3 and BCAA trials. There were no differences in nuclear factor-kappa B and Bcl-2 between control and supplement trials. This study showed that adding omega-3 fatty acids or BCAA to the dietary regime of old men could partially attenuate resistance exercise-induced apoptosis.

Evaluation of Omega-3 fatty acids in management of trigeminal neuralgia

Background: Trigeminal neuralgic (TN) pain has been known as the world's worst pain. Omega-3 fatty acids have been recently studied extensively in neuralgic pain. Carbamazepine has been known to be the first drug of choice in treating TN pain. In the present study, the potential benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in addition to the carbamazepine were assessed. Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate the role of omega-3 fatty acids in the neuralgic pain along with carbamazepine in treating neuralgic pain. Materials and Methods: The present study was undertaken on 114 patients with TN pain. The patients were divided in two groups. The group I consisted of patients who were on carbamazepine only, and group II comprised patients who were on carbamazepine and omega-3 fatty acids. The pain was assessed using Brief Pain Inventory questionnaire, which is the most widely used questionnaire for chronic pain. The patients were evaluated on the day of reporting and on subsequent follow-up at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 15 weeks interval. The data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis to assess the additional benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in TN pain. Results: The results obtained showed that the intensity of pain reduction and life quality was better in patients receiving carbamazepine and omega-3 fatty acids by the end of the 15th week compared to the patients receiving carbamazepine alone. Conclusion: The present study demonstrates the reduction in neuropathic pain on long-term usage of omega-3 fatty acids, signifying that omega-3 fatty acids may offer better relief in neuralgic pain.

A meta-analysis on Omega-3 supplements in preventing recurrence of atrial fibrillation

Previous studies had suggested that Omega-3 fatty acids have pleiotropic effects and favourable safety profile, which may potentially increase the efficacy of antiarrhythmic drugs in suppressing atrial arrhythmias through combination therapy. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the effectiveness of using Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids as a sole anti-arrhythmic agent or as an adjunct to existing pharmacological therapies in preventing atrial fibrillation recurrence. Randomized controlled trials published in English, from inception to December 2016, were considered. We searched for published studies in the following electronic databases: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, EMBASE, Medline, Scopus, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature. Pooled hazard ratio (HR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) for time to first atrial fibrillation recurrence was analysed using a fixed effects model. Four RCTs with 1,268 participants were included in the review. Our results showed that Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid therapy had no effect on preventing atrial fibrillation recurrence compared to control/placebo group (HR: 1.13, 95% CI: 0.96 to 1.33, p = 0.14), with no significant heterogeneity found among those studies (Q value = 0.15, 9 = 0.99, I2 = 0%). Therefore, current evidence does not support treatment benefit of Omega-3 fatty acids in preventing atrial fibrillation recurrence among patients who have not been treated by any conventional reversion treatment, or who have only been treated with pharmacological therapy.

Omega-3 in the Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases

In the last years, Mexico has experimented changes in the epidemiological and nutritional transition. There is a decrease of communicable diseases and an increase of chronic diseases, becoming the main causes of death, mainly cardiovascular diseases. Experimental, epidemiological and interventional studies have demonstrated the beneficial cardiovascular effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexanoic acid (DHA), which have antiatherosclerotic, antithrombotic, antiarrhythmic and anti-inflammatory effects. The American Dietetic Association recommend an ingestion of 250 to 1000 mg/day of omega 3. This paper mentions the functional characteristics, biosynthesis and mechanisms of omega-3 fatty acids. This paper also reviews the clinical evidence that support their role as a cardioprotective factor. Derived from the analysis of the reviewed studies, it is concluded that taking into account the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, it is necessary to increase the consumption of foods rich in these fatty acids.&#x0D;

Exploration of the perceived and actual benefits of omega-3 fatty acids and the impact of FADS1 and FADS2 genetic information on dietary intake and blood levels of EPA and DHA.

From a global health perspective, increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids (FAs), in particular eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are beneficial for human health. However, the consumption of EPA- and DHA-rich foods such as fatty fish is low in the Western diet. Therefore, finding new ways to motivate people to increase their consumption of omega-3 FAs is essential. To find effective ways to motivate individuals, understanding people's awareness of omega-3 FAs and how they obtain their knowledge about nutrition and health is critical. Consequently, we developed an online survey to assess awareness and self-reported intake of omega-3 FAs and supplements in young adults. EPA and DHA are also produced endogenously to a limited extent through a pathway regulated by fatty acid desaturase 1 and 2 (FADS1 and FADS2) genes. Of relevance, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the FADS genes influence levels of omega-3 FAs, where minor allele carriers have lower levels compared with major allele carriers. Accordingly, we conducted a clinical trial to investigate FA levels in response to dietary EPA and DHA supplementation in young adults stratified by SNPs in FADS1 and FADS2. The level of reported awareness of omega-3 terminology varied depending on an individual's field of study and thus providing all participants with the same set of nutrition information could be an effective tool to increase knowledge and motivate behaviour change. Additionally, the variation in FA levels in accordance to SNPs in FADS1 and FADS2 could be used to create tailored nutritional recommendations which may improve lifestyle habits. The results discovered in the first 2 studies regarding awareness of omega-3 FAs and genetic variation were subsequently used to design a nutrigenetics intervention in young adults. Individuals who received their FADS1 genetic information were more aware of different omega-3 FAs and reported fewer barriers to their consumption by the end of the study, compared with those who did not receive their personal genetic information. All participants increased their intake of EPA and DHA, which was reflected in the analyses of red blood cells. Overall, this thesis demonstrates the power of combining nutritional and genetic information as motivators to increase omega-3 consumption.