Dietary Intake Of Eicosapentaenoic Acid Research Articles

Association of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intakeswith juvenile myopia: Across-sectional study based on the NHANES database.

Inflammation is involved in the development of myopia. n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) have vasodilating and anti-inflammatory effects, which may be involved in controlling myopia. It is of great significance to explore the relationship between n-3 PUFA intakes and juvenile myopia in order to control and alleviate myopia among teenagers through dietary intervention. Sociodemographic data, information of nutrient intakes, cotinine, PUFAs, and eye refractive status of 1,128 juveniles were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database in this cross-sectional study. PUFAs contained total polyunsaturated fatty acid (TPFAs), alpha-linolenic acid, octadecatetraenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Covariates were screened by comparison among groups of normal vision, low myopia, and high myopia. The association between n-3 PUFA intakes and the risk of juvenile myopia was evaluated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Among the juveniles, 788 (70.68%) had normal vision, 299 (25.80%) had low myopia, and 41 (3.52%) had high myopia. There were significant differences in average EPA and DHA intakes among the three groups, and mean DPA and DHA intakes in the normal vision group were lower than those in the low myopia group (P < 0.05). After adjustment for age, gender, TPFAs, and cotinine, a high dietary intake of EPA (≥11 mg/1,000 kcal) in juveniles seemed to be associated with the risk of high myopia (OR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.18-0.85), while no significant associations were identified between n-3 PUFA intakes and the risk of low myopia. A high dietary intake of EPA may be associated with a decreased risk of high myopia among juveniles. A further prospective study is needed to validate this observation.

Intake of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in childhood, FADS genotype and incident asthma.

Longitudinal evidence on the relation between dietary intake of n-3 (ω-3) very-long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, i.e. eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), in mid-childhood and asthma risk is scarce. We aimed to investigate whether a higher intake of EPA and DHA from fish in childhood is associated with a lower risk of incident asthma.In the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, dietary intakes of EPA and DHA from fish were estimated by food frequency questionnaire at 7 years of age. We used logistic regression, controlling for confounders, to analyse associations between intake of EPA and DHA (quartiles) and incidence of doctor-diagnosed asthma at age 11 or 14 years, and explored potential effect modification by a fatty acid desaturase (FADS) polymorphism (rs1535). Replication was sought in the Swedish BAMSE birth cohort.There was no evidence of association between intake of EPA plus DHA from fish and incident asthma overall (n=4543). However, when stratified by FADS genotype, the odds ratio comparing the top versus bottom quartile among the 2025 minor G allele carriers was 0.49 (95% CI 0.31–0.79; ptrend=0.006), but no inverse association was observed in the homozygous major A allele group (OR 1.43, 95% CI 0.83–2.46; ptrend=0.19) (pinteraction=0.006). This gene–nutrient interaction on incident asthma was replicated in BAMSE.In children with a common FADS variant, higher intake of EPA and DHA from fish in childhood was strongly associated with a lower risk of incident asthma up to mid-adolescence.

Circulating Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Incident Adverse Events in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction

BackgroundDietary omega-3 eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) has multiple cardioprotective properties. The proportion of EPA in serum phosphatidylcholine (PC) mirrors dietary EPA intake during previous weeks. Circulating EPA in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) relates to smaller infarct size and preserved long-term ventricular function. ObjectivesThe authors investigated whether serum-PC EPA (proxy for marine omega-3 consumption) levels at the time of STEMI were associated with a lower incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), all-cause mortality, and readmission for cardiovascular (CV) causes at 3 years’ follow-up. We also explored the association of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, proxy for vegetable omega-3 intake) with all-cause mortality and MACE. MethodsThe authors prospectively included 944 consecutive patients with STEMI (mean age 61 years, 209 women) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention. We determined serum-PC fatty acids with gas chromatography. ResultsDuring follow-up, 211 patients had MACE, 108 died, and 130 were readmitted for CV causes. A Cox proportional hazards model adjusted for known clinical predictors showed that serum-PC EPA at the time of STEMI was inversely associated with both incident MACE and CV readmission (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.76; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.62 to 0.94, and HR: 0.74; 95% CI: 0.58 to 0.95, respectively, for a 1-standard deviation [SD] increase). Serum-PC ALA was inversely related to all-cause mortality (HR: 0.65; 95% CI: 0.44 to 0.96, for a 1-SD increase). ConclusionsElevated serum-PC EPA and ALA levels at the time of STEMI were associated with a lower risk of clinical adverse events. Consumption of foods rich in these fatty acids might improve the prognosis of STEMI.

Changes in Erythrocyte Omega-3 Fatty Acids in German Employees upon Dietary Advice by Corporate Health.

Background: The erythrocyte ratio of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) over total fatty acids, the omega-3 index (O3I), has been suggested as an overall health marker and to motivate corporate health recommendations. We set out to assess the O3I status in a working population, the differences between normal and rotating shift employees, the consumption of omega-3 rich food and whether recommendations to increase intake of omega-3 rich foods can improve the O3I. Methods: Employees registered for their occupational health check-up were offered to participate in a pre-post study at the Ludwigshafen (Germany) site including an assessment of their O3I at baseline and after 4 months (follow-up) and two subsequent food frequency questionnaires. For those with O3I below 8%, a recommendation was provided to increase the intake of omega-3 fatty acid rich food and to take advantage of the employees’ catering service with its enhanced fatty seafood offer during the study period. Dietary intake of EPA and DHA, erythrocyte fatty acid profiles, clinical and lifestyle parameters were assessed. Results: In 500 employees (26.6% female, 21–64 years, median age: 47 years [IQR: 37–53]), at baseline the overall mean O3I was 4.1 ± 1.1% (99.6% of O3I assessed were below 8%), higher in women, in participants with “normal” body weight, upper employment grade, and non-smokers, but not different between regular and rotating shift workers. The three fifths of the cohort also participating in the follow-up increased their EPA and DHA intake by 0.1 g/d and their O3I by 0.5 percentage points. Conclusion: This study provides essential data on omega-3 erythrocyte concentrations in a clinically healthy German working population and the challenges of increasing the O3I with dietary recommendations even in study participants motivated to follow up on their omega-3 status.

Prevention of Endothelial Dysfunction and Cardiovascular Disease by n-3 Fatty Acids-Inhibiting Action on Oxidative Stress and Inflammation.

Prospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials have shown the protective effect of n-3 fatty acids against cardiovascular disease (CVD). The effect of n-3 fatty acids on vascular endothelial cells indicates their possible role in CVD prevention. Here, we describe the effect of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on endothelial dysfunction-caused by inflammation and oxidative stress-and their role in the development of CVD. We reviewed epidemiological studies done on n-3 fatty acids in CVD. The effect of DHA and EPA on vascular endothelial cells was examined with regard to changes in various markers, such as arteriosclerosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress, using cell and animal models. Epidemiological studies revealed that dietary intake of EPA and DHA was associated with a reduced risk of various CVDs. EPA and DHA inhibited various events involved in arteriosclerosis development by preventing oxidative stress and inflammation associated with endothelial cell damage. In particular, EPA and DHA prevented endothelial cell dysfunction mediated by inflammatory responses and oxidative stress induced by events related to CVD. DHA and EPA also increased eNOS activity and induced nitric oxide production. The effects of DHA and EPA on vascular endothelial cell damage and dysfunction may involve the induction of nitric oxide, in addition to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. n-3 fatty acids inhibit endothelial dysfunction and prevent arteriosclerosis. Therefore, the intake of n-3 fatty acids may prevent CVDs, like myocardial infarction and stroke.

Gamma-linolenic and pinolenic acids exert anti-inflammatory effects in cultured human endothelial cells through their elongation products

AbstractIt is recommended that humans consume fatty fish twice a week to increase dietary intake of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosapentaenoic acid (DHA) to achieve long-term health benefits. However current stocks of fish are likely insufficient to meet the needs of humans. Plant-derived polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and pinolenic acid (PIN) may provide sustainable land-based sources of bioactive fatty acids.Anti-inflammatory effects of GLA and PIN were compared to EPA and DHA in cultured EA.hy926 cells. Cells were treated with PUFAs (10, 25 and 50 μM) for 48 hours prior to stimulation with tumour necrosis factor for 24 hours. Incorporation of PUFA was measured by gas chromatography; inflammatory responses were measured by ELISA and flow cytometry.All fatty acids were incorporated into EA.hy926 cells, after 48 hours, in a dose dependent manner (10 and 50 μM). Pre-treatment with GLA and PIN (50 μM) resulted in significant increases in their elongation products, dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA) (p &lt; 0.0001) from GLA and eicosatrienoic (ETrA) (p &lt; 0.0001) from PIN.Pre-treatment with GLA, PIN, EPA or DHA (50 μM) had differential effects depending on fatty acid and cytokine examined. Pre-treatment of EA.hy926 cells with both GLA and PIN resulted in a lower concentration of soluble ICAM-1 (p &lt; 0.01); however EPA and DHA showed greater reduction (p &lt; 0.0001). MCP-1 production was significantly lower after treatment with PIN (p &lt; 0.05), again to a lesser extent than EPA and DHA (p &lt; 0.0001). Pre-treatment with EPA and DHA (50 μM) resulted in lower cell surface expression of ICAM-1 (p &lt; 0.001, p &lt; 0.0001), an effect not observed with GLA or PIN.Anti-inflammatory effects of GLA and PIN were possibly due to their elongation products, and therefore silencing of elongase 5 (ELOVL5) was explored. ELOVL5 siRNA significantly inhibited the production of DGLA and ETrA in EA.hy926 cells pre-treated with GLA and PIN (50 μM). Furthermore significant decreases in sICAM-1 and MCP-1 were not seen after pre-treatment with GLA or PIN in ELOVL5 siRNA silenced EA.hy926 cells.Plant PUFAs (GLA and PIN) demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects in this model using endothelial cells, but are less potent than EPA or DHA. Anti-inflammatory effects of GLA and PIN may be due to their elongation metabolites; DGLA and ETrA.

Abstract 4210: Ethnic differences in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intake

Abstract Background: In the US, over 1.7 million new cancer cases are forecast in 2018, with highest incidence in non-Hispanic blacks and lowest in Asians, and with non-Hispanic whites having higher cancer incidence than Hispanics. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA), particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), may play a role in reducing risks for some diseases, including cancer. Ethnic dietary intake patterns are known to affect dietary intake habits affecting individual macronutrient and micronutrient consumptions. Some previous population-based intake studies suggest differences in total fat consumption patterns including n-3 PUFA across Hispanic ethnic groups. Objectives: This study aims to determine if mean n-3 PUFA dietary intakes of EPA and DHA differ across race/ethnic groups in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2014 and to describe the main EPA and DHA food sources consumed. We hypothesize n-3 EPA and DHA dietary intakes differ across ethnic groups based on ethnocentric dietary intake patterns. Methodology: Dietary intake data collected from the Day 1 of the 24-hour recall in the NHANES 2011-2014 was used to estimate mean daily EPA and DHA intake and identify food sources contributing to n-3 dietary intakes in adults across race/ethnic groups. We estimated mean EPA and DHA intake in grams (g) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) in Hispanics, non-Hispanic whites, non-Hispanic blacks, and non-Hispanic Asians. For major food sources across ethnic groups, the fractions of total intake (and corresponding 95% CIs) from each food item were also calculated. Results: A total of 9,848 individuals were included in this analysis, including 21% Hispanics, 44% non-Hispanic whites and others, 23% non-Hispanic blacks, and 12% non-Hispanic Asians. Non-Hispanic blacks reported higher total PUFA intake (Mean: 19.60g; 95% CI: 18.99-20.22) and non-Hispanic Asians reported the lowest intake (Mean: 16.57g; 95% CI: 15.86-17.27). However, non-Hispanic Asians reported an intake 3x higher of EPA (Mean: 0.07g; 95% CI: 0.06-0.07) and 2x higher of DHA (Mean: 0.12g; 95% CI: 0.11-0.14) than other ethnic groups. Baked or broiled salmon was the largest contributor of EPA and DHA across race/ethnic groups. For non-Hispanic whites and non-Hispanic blacks, salmon cake or patty was their second largest source of EPA. Hispanics had a higher intake of foods with lower DHA content. Conclusions: Our results suggest EPA and DHA intake differs across race/ethnicity and the dietary sources to obtain these n-3 PUFA shows substantial heterogeneity. Epidemiologic studies of cancer and other disease outcomes should employ nutritional assessment tools that consider ethnic-specific sources of n-3 PUFA intake. Citation Format: Sachelly Julian-Serrano, Kevin W. Dodd, Ivonne Anglero, Rachael Stolzenberg-Solomon, Nancy J. Emenaker. Ethnic differences in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intake [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 4210.

Validation of a Dietary Questionnaire to Screen Omega-3 Fatty Acids Levels in Healthy Adults.

To facilitate a clinical observational study to identify healthy volunteers with low (defined as ≤4%) and high (defined as ≥5.5%) omega-3 indices, a dietary questionnaire to rapidly assess habitual dietary intake of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was developed. This study aimed to determine the validity of this newly developed dietary questionnaire. One hundred and eight volunteers were included and were assessed for habitual dietary intake of EPA and DHA using the questionnaire. The United States Department of Agriculture food products database and nutrition fact label was referenced for calculation. Blood samples were collected for the analysis of fatty acids in whole blood specimens and to derive omega-3 indices. A linear correlation was observed between reported dietary consumption of EPA, DHA, EPA+DHA and the whole blood levels of EPA, DHA, and the omega-3 indices (r = 0.67, 0.62, 0.67, respectively, p < 0.001 for all). The findings also suggested that the questionnaire was substantially better at identifying volunteers with high omega-3 indices (sensitivity 89%, specificity 84%, and agreement 86%) compared to volunteers with low omega-3 indices (sensitivity 100%, specificity 66%, and agreement 42%). In conclusion, this newly developed questionnaire is an efficient tool for the assessment of omega-3 indices in study populations and is particularly effective in identifying individuals with high omega-3 indices.

Ethnic Disparities in EPA and DHA Intake in US Adults: Results from the NHANES 2011–2014 (P04-107-19)

ObjectivesRecent studies suggest a large percentage of US adults are not meeting recommended dietary intakes for omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA), specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Meanwhile, the Institute of Medicine has yet to establish Dietary Reference Intakes for either EPA or DHA and some US populations may be particularly vulnerable. Therefore, we investigated dietary consumption and main food sources of EPA and DHA across racial and ethnic group potentially at-risk. We hypothesized differences in mean dietary intakes of EPA and DHA (P < 0.05) may exist across targeted groups due to differences in ethnocentric dietary patterns. MethodsFor these investigations, data from the NHANES 2011–2014 was analyzed. Group mean daily EPA and DHA intake in grams (g), along with 95% confidence intervals (CI), were computed from up to two 24-hour recall measurements in Hispanics, non-Hispanics whites and others (NHW), non-Hispanic blacks (NHB), and non-Hispanic Asians (NHA). For major food sources across race/ethnic group, the fractions of total intake (and corresponding 95% CIs) from each food item were calculated from the first day’s 24-hour recall. ResultsA total of 9848 individuals were included in this analysis, representing 21% Hispanics, 44% NHW, 23% NHB, and 12% NHA. As expected, significant differences (P < 0.0001 for all tests) in mean intake were observed across racial and ethnic groups for energy, total/saturated/monounsaturated/PUFA fat, cholesterol, EPA, and DHA. NHB reported highest total PUFA intake (Mean: 19.60 g; 95% CI: 18.99–20.22) and NHA reported the lowest (Mean: 16.57 g; 95% CI: 15.86–17.27). However, NHA reported an intake 3x higher of EPA (Mean: 0.07 g; 95% CI: 0.06–0.07) and 2x higher of DHA (Mean: 0.12 g; 95% CI: 0.11–0.14) than other ethnic groups. For NHA, oily fish, which are food sources higher in EPA and DHA, were the largest total EPA and DHA contributors. On the other hand, main contributors to EPA and DHA in Hispanics were food sources lower in EPA and DHA. ConclusionsIn summary, we observed EPA and DHA mean daily intakes differ significantly across racial/ethnic groups. Further studies assessing dietary n-3 PUFA intakes in the US population should include differences in ethnocentric dietary patterns. Funding SourcesThis project was funded by the NCI Introduction to Cancer Research Careers.

Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids and headache in the U.S. population

The objective of this study was to assess whether dietary intake of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) is associated with lower prevalence of headache in the U.S. population. This cross-sectional study used data for a nationally representative sample of 12,317 men and women aged ≥ 20 years participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys of 1999–2004. Interviewers recorded self-report of severe headache or migraine in the past three months. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were quantified from 24-hour dietary recall using the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Nutrient Database. Serum concentration of C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation and potential mediator of PUFA's analgesic properties, was quantified by latex-enhanced nephelometry. Multivariable generalized linear models estimated prevalence ratios (PR) with 95% confidence limits (CL) for severe headache or migraine adjusting for NHANES cycle, sociodemographic characteristics, body mass index and total energy intake. The unadjusted prevalence of severe headache or migraine was 22.0% (females 28.2%, males 15.5%). In multivariable analysis, greater intake of omega-3 PUFAs was associated with lower prevalence of severe headache or migraine: PR 0.94 (95% CL: 0.88, 0.99, p = 0.035) per log unit increase in EPA, and PR 0.94 (95% CL: 0.90, 0.99, p = 0.023) per log unit increase in DHA. The strength of association was greater for non-Mexican Hispanics than for other racial/ethnic groups but was not attenuated after adjustment for C-reactive protein. In conclusion, higher dietary intakes of EPA and DHA were associated with lower prevalence of headache supporting the hypothesis that omega-3 PUFAs may prevent or reduce headache.

Dietary Intakes of EPA and DHA Omega-3 Fatty Acids among US Childbearing-Age and Pregnant Women: An Analysis of NHANES 2001-2014.

Background: The 2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) recommend that the general population should consume about 8 ounces (oz.) per week of a variety of seafood, providing approximately 250 mg per day of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and that pregnant and lactating women should consume 8–12 oz. per week of seafood. Methods: We determined the usual intakes, percentage not meeting recommendations, and trends in EPA and DHA intakes among childbearing-age and pregnant women (15–44 years of age) using the NHANES cycles 2001–2002 through 2013–2014. Results: For the childbearing-age women, the mean usual intake of seafood was 0.44 ± 0.02 oz. equivalent per day and 100% of the population was below the DGA recommendation. Mean usual intakes of EPA, DHA, and combined EPA and DHA from foods and dietary supplements combined were 26.8 ± 1.4, 62.2 ± 1.9, and 88.1 ± 3.0 mg per day, respectively. Over 95% of the sample did not meet the daily intakes of 250 mg EPA and DHA. Similar results were observed for pregnant women. After controlling for covariates, there were slight but significant increases in EPA and DHA intakes from foods and dietary supplements over the 14-year span among childbearing-age (p = 0.005) and pregnant women (p = 0.002). Conclusions: It was estimated that a majority of U.S. childbearing-age and pregnant women consumed significantly lower amounts of seafood than what the DGA recommends, which subsequently leads to low intakes of EPA and DHA; in addition, dietary supplement use has not eliminated the nutrient shortfall.

Correlation between intake of omega-3 fatty acids and depressive and anxiety symptoms during pregnancy

Introduction. Anxiety and depression during pregnancy are disabling disorders associated to complications during the pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum period, with a significant prevalence, between 9 and 20%, hence its importance. Nutritional factors, such as omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3FA) deficiency, have been related with both disorders during pregnancy, especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Objective. To evaluate the association between dietary intake of EPA and DHA, and anxiety symptoms (AS) and depressive symptoms (DS) in Mexican pregnant women. Method. The sample consisted of 151 women in the second trimester of pregnancy. Instruments included a Food Frequency Questionnaire, the Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Results. A daily intake of DHA and EPA of 70 mg/d and 30 mg/d, respectively, was found. The prevalence of AS was 44.4%, and 17.9% for DS. We also found the correlation negatively moderate between dietary intake of DHA and EPA and AS (p = .003, p = .017) and DS (p = .001, p = .020) in the group of women who had a severely insufficient intake of ω-3FA. Discussion and conclusion. The statistical significance shows a negative correlation between variables and the dietary intake of ω-3FA explains in a very small percentage the variability of AS and DS, according to their coefficient of determination. These results suggest the need for an investigation of this relationship through interventional studies.

Association of Dietary Fatty Acid Intake With Glaucoma in the United States

Identifying whether an association exists between daily dietary polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) consumption and the prevalence of glaucoma in the United States may provide modifiable dietary risk factors for the development of glaucoma. To analyze the association between glaucoma and daily dietary intake of PUFAs, including ω-3 fatty acids, in the US population. Data from 3865 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005-2008 database who were 40 years or older, had participated in the vision health and dietary intake questionnaires, and had available results from laboratory tests and eye examinations that included frequency-doubling technology visual field loss detection tests and optic disc photographs were included. Data collection was performed by NHANES from 2005 to 2006. Data for the present study were downloaded from their database May 1 to 30, 2017. Data analyses were performed from June 1 to October 1, 2017. Daily dietary intake of PUFAs, including ω-3 fatty acids. Prevalence of glaucoma in the United States as defined using the Rotterdam criteria, which included a combination of optic cupping or asymmetry and visual field defect results. Of the 83 643 392 weighted survey participants included in this cross-sectional study, 43 660 327 (52.2%) were women and 3 076 410 (3.7%) met our criteria for having glaucoma. Compared with participants without glaucoma, those with glaucoma were older (mean [SE] age, 61.4 [0.8] vs 53.7 [0.4] years; P < .001). Increased levels of daily dietary intake of eicosapentaenoic acid (odds ratio [OR], 0.06; 95% CI, 0.00-0.73) and docosahexaenoic acid (OR, 0.06; 95% CI, 0.01-0.87) were associated with significantly lower odds of having glaucoma. However, participants with daily total dietary PUFA intake levels in the second (OR, 2.84; 95% CI, 1.39-5.79) and third (OR, 2.97; 95% CI, 1.08-8.15) quartiles showed significantly increased odds of meeting our criteria for a diagnosis of glaucoma. Increased daily dietary consumption levels of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid were associated with lower likelihood of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. However, consumption levels of total PUFAs in the higher quartiles were associated with a higher risk of glaucoma, which may have resulted from the relative intakes of ω-6 and ω-3 fatty acids and other confounding comorbidities. This study also hypothesizes that increasing the proportion of dietary ω-3 consumption levels while controlling overall daily PUFA intake may be protective against glaucoma. However, longitudinal studies or randomized clinical trials are needed to assess these hypotheses.

Associations among Omega-3 Fatty Acid Status, Anxiety, and Mental Toughness in Female Collegiate Athletes

ABSTRACTObjective: Poor omega-3 fatty acid status has been linked to anxiety in the general population, but scarce data are available describing omega-3 fatty acid levels in athletes and their associations with anxiety and mental toughness.Methods: Whole blood samples were obtained from 54 female collegiate athletes and analyzed for fatty acids as a part of this cross-sectional observational study. Participants also completed a food frequency questionnaire on the intake of omega-3 fatty acids, as well as the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Sport Anxiety Scale (SAS)-2, and Mental Toughness Scale (MTS). Measures were collected during the athletes' off-season. Spearman's rho coefficients were used to examine the associations between fatty acid levels and psychological scores.Results: Blood levels of the HS-Omega-3 Index® (rho = −0.32, p = 0.02), eicosapentaenoic acid (rho = −0.40, p = 0.003), and docosapentaenoic acid (rho = −0.33, p = 0.02) were negatively correlated with BAI scores. Likewise, dietary intakes of eicosapentaenoic acid (rho = −0.38, p = 0.007) and docosahexaenoic acid (rho = −0.35, p = 0.02) were negatively correlated with BAI scores. Blood docosapentaenoic acid was positively correlated with MTS (rho = 0.27, p = 0.049). None of the dietary or blood fatty acids were significantly correlated with SAS-2 scores.Conclusions: Both blood and dietary omega-3 fatty acid levels are associated with general but not sport-specific anxiety in female collegiate athletes during an off-season period. Randomized trials should be conducted to evaluate the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on anxiety and mental toughness in athletes.

Zufuhr von Omega-3-Fettsäuren könnte Risiko für AMD vermindern

Wu J et al. Dietary intakes of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid and risk of age-related macular degeneration. Ophthalmology 2017; 124: 634 – 643

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids reduce vascular tone and inflammation in human saphenous vein

Dietary intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), has been reported to have beneficial cardiovascular effects. However, little is known about the effect of EPA and DHA on human vascular tone. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of EPA and DHA on vascular tone of the human saphenous vein (SV) obtained from patients undergoing coronary bypass operation under normal and inflammatory conditions. Moreover, we aimed to investigate the effect of EPA and DHA on the release of inflammatory mediators from SV. Pretreatment of SV with EPA and DHA (100μM, 18h) decreased the contractile response of SV to norepinephrine (NE) under normal and inflammatory conditions. Moreover, EPA and DHA pretreatment diminished increased Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 (MCP-1) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) release from SV under inflammatory conditions. In conclusion, our results suggest that EPA and DHA pretreatment may be beneficial to counteract graft vasospasm and vascular inflammation in SV which are important factors in graft failure development. Therefore, dietary intake of EPA and DHA may have potential clinical applications in improving coronary bypass graft patency.

Evaluating Changes in Omega-3 Fatty Acid Intake after Receiving Personal FADS1 Genetic Information: A Randomized Nutrigenetic Intervention.

Nutrigenetics research is anticipated to lay the foundation for personalized dietary recommendations; however, it remains unclear if providing individuals with their personal genetic information changes dietary behaviors. Our objective was to evaluate if providing information for a common variant in the fatty acid desaturase 1 (FADS1) gene changed omega-3 fatty acid (FA) intake and blood levels in young female adults (18–25 years). Participants were randomized into Genetic (intervention) and Non-Genetic (control) groups, with measurements taken at Baseline and Final (12 weeks). Dietary intake of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was assessed using an omega-3 food frequency questionnaire. Red blood cell (RBC) FA content was quantified by gas chromatography. Implications of participation in a nutrigenetics study and awareness of omega-3 FAs were assessed with online questionnaires. Upon completion of the study, EPA and DHA intake increased significantly (p = 1.0 × 10−4) in all participants. This change was reflected by small increases in RBC %EPA. Participants in the Genetic group showed increased awareness of omega-3 terminology by the end of the study, reported that the dietary recommendations were more useful, and rated cost as a barrier to omega-3 consumption less often than those in the Non-Genetic group. Providing participants FADS1 genetic information did not appear to influence omega-3 intake during the 12 weeks, but did change perceptions and behaviors related to omega-3 FAs in this timeframe.

Dietary Intakes of Eicosapentaenoic Acid and Docosahexaenoic Acid and Risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

To evaluate the associations between intakes of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and the intermediate and advanced stages of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Prospective cohort study. We followed 75 889 women from the Nurses' Health Study and 38 961 men from the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study who were at least 50 years old, from 1984 to 2012 and 1986 to 2010, respectively. Cohort participants are mostly white (≥95%). We assessed dietary intake by a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) at baseline and every 4 years. We calculated cumulative average intakes of EPA and DHA from FFQs and also computed predicted erythrocyte and plasma scores directly from food intake using regression models. Cox proportional hazards models were used to compute the associations with AMD outcomes. We confirmed 1589 incident intermediate and 1356 advanced AMD cases (primarily neovascular AMD) with a visual acuity of 20/30 or worse, owing primarily to AMD, by medical record review. For intermediate AMD, the pooled hazard ratio (HR) between the 2 cohorts for DHA comparing the extreme quintiles of intake was 0.78 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.66-0.92; P trend, 0.008) and for EPA+ DHA was 0.83 (95% CI, 0.71-0.98; P trend, 0.03). The pooled HR for fatty fish, comparing ≥5 servings per week to almost never, was 0.61 (95% CI, 0.46-0.81; P trend, <0.001). For advanced AMD, the pooled HR for DHA was 1.01 (95% CI, 0.84-1.21; P trend, 0.75) and for fatty fish was 0.80 (95% CI, 0.59-1.08; P trend, 0.11). Secondary analyses using predicted erythrocyte and plasma scores of EPA and DHA yielded slightly stronger inverse associations for intermediate AMD and similar results for advanced AMD. Higher intakes of EPA and DHA may prevent or delay the occurrence of visually significant intermediate AMD. However, the totality of current evidence for EPA and DHA and advanced AMD is discordant, though there was no association with advanced AMD in the present study.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid blood biomarkers increase linearly in men and women after tightly controlled intakes of 0.25, 0.5, and 1 g/d of EPA + DHA

Blood levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) have been related to coronary heart disease risk. Understanding the response of EPA + DHA in blood to dietary intake of EPA + DHA would facilitate the use of blood measures as markers of adherence and enable the development of dietary recommendations. The objective of this study is examine the blood response to intakes of EPA + DHA ≤1 g/d with an intervention designed for dietary adherence. It was hypothesized this relationship would be linear and that intakes of EPA + DHA <1 g/d would result in blood levels below those associated with the highest level of protection for cardiovascular events. Background EPA + DHA intake of men and women (n = 20) was determined by food frequency questionnaire and adherence was monitored by weekly fingertip blood sampling for fatty acid determinations. Participants consumed nutraceuticals to achieve intakes of 0.25 g/d and 0.5 g/d EPA + DHA for successive four-week periods. A subgroup (n = 5) had intakes of 1.0 g/d EPA + DHA for an additional 4 weeks. Fatty acid composition of whole blood, erythrocytes, and plasma phospholipids were determined at each time point. Blood levels of EPA and DHA increased linearly in these pools. A comprehensive review of the literature was used to verify the blood-intake relationship. Blood levels of long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids reached blood levels associated with the highest levels of primary cardiac arrest reduction and sudden cardiac death risk only with intakes of 1.0 g/d of EPA + DHA. The blood biomarker response to intakes of EPA + DHA ≤1 g/d is linear in a small but highly adherent study sample and this information can assist in determining adherence in clinical studies and help identify dietary intake targets from associations between blood and disease.

Food Sources of EPA and DHA in the Diets of American Children, NHANES 2003-2010

Objective Dietary eicosapentaenoicacid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are found in the highest concentrations in fish and seafood. As important nutrients for brain and eye development and function, their consumption levels are of public health interest, especially in children. This study was conducted toexamine children’sreported consumption of fish and shellfish as well as EPA and DHA intake. Methods Secondary analysis of dietary intake (24-hour recall) and Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) data ascertaining habitual fish and seafood intake of 2-18 year olds (N=13,441) participating in the 2003-2004, 2005-2006, 2007-2008, and 2009-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). All analyses were survey design corrected and weighted (one-day dietary intake weight) and conducted for the total sample by age group (2-5, 6-11, 12-18 year olds); analysis was conducted for EPA and DHA combined. Results Less than 50% of the children consumed fish (49.0%) or shellfish (35.9%) and only 0.3% of the population consumed fish high in EPA and DHA. Children consumed, on average, less than 25% of the recommended amount of EPA and DHA. The foods that contributed the highest average of EPA and DHA to the diet were canned sardines, cooked salmon, and fried carp. The EPA and DHA-containing foods consumed by at least one child in the population with the highest EPA and DHA densities were sturgeon roe, baked/broiled mackerel, and sardines. Conclusions Results of this nationally representative study of 2-18 year olds show that children had suboptimal consumption of fish and shellfish, and EPA and DHA reported intakes were much below the recommended amounts. Further research is needed to examine the barriers to higher fish and shellfish consumption and to develop effective ways to increase children’s dietary intake of EPA and DHA. Introduction The human body has the ability to elongate and desaturate alphalinolenic acid (ALA) to the long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) [1-3]. However, Western diets are low in n-3 PUFAs, specifically ALA found in plant oils and EPA and DHA found in oily fish [4-6]. In the United States (US), the mean intake of n-3 PUFAs is 0.7% of total energy consumed [7], and intake in adults is very low with a median intake of EPA and DHA only contributing 0.05% of total dietary energy[7, 8]. Even individuals with low fish consumption have greater n-3 PUFA status than those individuals who do not consume any fish [9]. Western diets low in n-3 PUFAs and high in n-6 PUFAs contribute to poor brain development and function [4, 10]. It is uncertain if the rate of DHA synthesis in the human body is sufficient to support optimal brain and retinal development, and these PUFA swould ideally be provided in the diet [11]. DHA is the major n-3 PUFA esterified in glycerophospholipids through the action of acyl-CoA synthases and acyl-CoA:lysophospholipid acyltransferases [12], that forms the structural matrix of brain grey matter and retinal membranes [13, 14]. In addition, dietary intake of n-6 PUFAs play a role since n-6 PUFAs interact and compete with n-3 PUFAs in the fatty acid metabolic pathway [15-21].