Omega-3 LC-PUFA Research Articles

Association between fatty acid intake and age-related macular degeneration: a meta-analysis.

The association of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) with the intake of high and low fatty acids (FAs), respectively, remains controversial. To this end, we performed a comprehensive meta-analysis of all the existing studies on the association of various intake levels of FA subtypes with AMD to determine these associations. A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases was conducted from inception to September 2023. To compare the highest and lowest groups, odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) was analyzed with a random-effects model/fixed-effects model. A high intake of omega-3 LCPUFAs (OR:0.67; 95%CI:[0.51, 0.88]; p = 0.004), DHA (OR:0.80; 95%CI:[0.70, 0.90]; p < 0.001), EPA (OR:0.91; 95%CI:[0.86, 0.97]; p = 0.004), and simultaneous intake of DHA and EPA (OR:0.79; 95%CI:[0.67, 0.93]; p = 0.035) significantly reduced the risk of overall AMD. Conversely, a high intake of trans-FAs (OR: 2.05; 95%CI: [1.29, 3.25]; p = 0.002) was significantly related to an increased risk of advanced AMD compared to the low-intake group. The subgroup analysis results are shown in the articles. Increasing dietary intake of omega-3 LCPUFAs, specifically DHA, and EPA, or the simultaneous intake of DHA and EPA, is significantly associated with a reduced risk of overall AMD. Various subtypes of omega-3 also have a significant association with a reduced risk of different stages of AMD. The high intake of trans-fatty acids (TFAs) is significantly and positively correlated with the risk of advanced AMD. This could further support the idea that consuming foods rich in omega-3 LCPUFAs and reducing consumption of foods rich in TFAs may prevent AMD. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42023467227.

Patterns of perinatal polyunsaturated fatty acid status and associated dietary or candidate-genetic factors

Perinatal exposure to omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) can be characterized through biomarkers in maternal or cord blood or breast milk. Objectives were to describe perinatal PUFA status combining multiple biofluids and to investigate how it was influenced by dietary intake during pregnancy and maternal FADS and ELOVL gene polymorphisms. This study involved 1,901 mother–child pairs from the EDEN cohort, with PUFA levels measured in maternal and cord erythrocytes, and colostrum. Maternal dietary PUFA intake during the last trimester was derived from a food frequency questionnaire. Twelve single-nucleotide polymorphisms in FADS and ELOVL genes were genotyped from maternal DNA. Principal component analysis incorporating PUFA levels from the three biofluids identified patterns of perinatal PUFA status. Spearman’s correlations explored associations between patterns and PUFA dietary intake, and linear regression models examined pattern associations with FADS or ELOVL haplotypes. Five patterns were retained: “High omega-3 LC-PUFAs, low omega-6 LC-PUFAs”; “Omega-6 LC-PUFAs”; “Colostrum LC-PUFAs”; “Omega-6 precursor (LA) and DGLA”; “Omega-6 precursor and colostrum ALA”. Maternal omega-3 LC-PUFA intakes were correlated with “High omega-3 LC-PUFAs, low omega-6 LC-PUFAs” (r(DHA) = 0.33) and “Omega-6 LC-PUFAs” (r(DHA) = −0.19) patterns. Strong associations were found between FADS haplotypes and PUFA patterns except for “High omega-3 LC-PUFAs, low omega-6 LC-PUFAs”. Lack of genetic association with the “High omega-3 LC-PUFAs, low omega-6 LC-PUFAs” pattern, highly correlated with maternal omega-3 LC-PUFA intake, emphasizes the importance of adequate omega-3 LC-PUFA intake during pregnancy and lactation. This study offers a more comprehensive assessment of perinatal PUFA status and its determinants.

Muscle biopsy long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid compositions, IMF and FMP in Australian pasture-based Bowen Genetics Forest Pastoral Angus, Hereford, and Wagyu Beef Cattle

BackgroundWe investigated breed and gender variations in the compositions of long-chain (≥ C20) omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC omega-3 PUFA), fat melting point (FMP) and intramuscular fat (IMF) contents in biopsy samples of the M. longissimus dorsi muscle of grazing beef cattle. The hypothesis that biopsy compositions of health-beneficial LC omega-3 PUFA, FMP and IMF in a pasture-based production system will vary with breed, was tested. Muscle biopsies were taken from 127 yearling pasture-based Angus, Hereford, and Wagyu heifers and young bulls exclusive to the Australian Bowen Genetics Forest Pastoral breeding stud averaging 12 ± 2.43 months of age and under the same management routine.ResultsBreed had a significant influence on IMF, FMP, and the compositions of oleic acid, α-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic (EPA), docosahexaenoic (DHA), docosapentaenoic (DPA), and total EPA + DHA + DPA in the M. longissimus dorsi muscle biopsies (P ≤ 0.03). The Wagyu breed had the highest (11.1%) and Hereford the lowest (5.9%) IMF (P = 0.03). The reverse trend was observed in FMP values where the Hereford breed had the highest (55 °C), Angus intermediate (46.5 °C), and Wagyu the lowest (33 °C) FMP. The Wagyu and Angus breeds had similar oleic fatty acid (18:1n-9) content, while the Hereford breed had the lowest (P < 0.01). The highest ALA, DPA, total EPA + DHA, total EPA + DHA + DPA and total ALA + EPA + DHA + DPA contents were detected in the Wagyu breed (P ≤ 0.03). The Hereford had similar EPA and DPA contents to the Angus (P ≥ 0.46). Total EPA + DHA + DPA contents in Wagyu, Angus, and Hereford were 28.8, 21.5, and 22.1 mg/100g tissue (P = 0.01), respectively. Sex was an important source of variation that influenced LC omega-3 PUFA composition, FMP and IMF, where yearling heifers had higher IMF (11.9% vs 5.3%), lower FMP (33°C vs 37°C), and higher LC omega-3 PUFA than bulls.ConclusionAll the results taken together indicate that the Wagyu breed at 28.8 mg/100g tissue, was the closest to meeting the Australia and New Zealand recommended source level threshold of 30 mg/100g tissue of health-beneficial ≥ C20 omega-3 FA content. Since gender was a significant determinant of LC omega-3 PUFA composition, IMF content and FMP, it should be factored into enhancement strategies of healthy meat eating quality traits in grazing cattle. These findings also suggest that the Bowen Genetics Forest Pastoral beef cattle studs are important sources of LC omega-3 PUFA that can be used to cover the deficit in these health claimable fatty acids in Western diets.

Dietary omega-3 LCPUFA intake in the prevention of neovascular age-related macular degeneration: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Purpose: to evaluate the protective effect of omega-3 long-chain unsaturated fatty acids on the progression of wet age-related macular degeneration (wAMD). Methods: this meta-analysis was designed, implemented, and analyzed in accordance with the Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) protocol and is reported following PRISMA guidelines. Results: in this study we included 5 observational trials, including 2 cross-sectional studies, 2 case-control studies, and 1 confrontation study. These tests are conducted in the U.S., Europe and Japan, and are of high quality. In general, people with high dietary long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 LCPUFAs) have a lower risk of progression to advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (effect size, ES: 0.51, 95 % CI [0.34, 0.75], I2 = 70 %, p = 0.01). When assessing docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) intake and wAMD risk a total of the three above studies were included, which also produced similar results. Conclusions: the highest DHA consumption reduced the risk of disease by 39 % (effect size: 0.61, 95 % CI [0.50, 0.74], I2 = 14 %, p = 0.31); compared with the lowest EPA consumption, the highest EPA consumption reduced the risk of wAMD by 32 % (ES: 0.68, 95 % CI [0.57, 0.82], I2 = 39 %, p = 0.20).

Docosahexaenoic and Eicosapentaenoic Intervention Modifies Plasma and Erythrocyte Omega-3 Fatty Acid Profiles But Not the Clinical Course of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Randomized Control Trial.

BackgroundThe pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is under investigation and one of the main alterations relates to the metabolic and inflammatory system dysfunctions. Indeed, based on a possible deficit of omega-3 fatty acids (FAs) of patients with ASD and looking for an anti-inflammatory effect, dietary supplements with omega-3 fatty acids have been proposed. We aimed to evaluate differences in plasma and erythrocyte FA profiles and plasma cytokines in patients with infantile ASD after supplementation with docosahexaenoic (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA) acids or placebo and both compared at baseline with a reference healthy group.MethodsA double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled intervention with DHA/EPA for 6 months was carried out in 54 children between 2 and 6 years diagnosed with ASD. They were selected and randomly assigned into two groups: 19 children received 800 mg/day of DHA and 25 mg/day of EPA, or placebo. In addition, another reference group of 59 healthy children of the same age was included. Plasma lipids and cytokines, and FA profiles in plasma and erythrocytes were measured at baseline and after 6 months of treatment in ASD children, and at baseline in the reference group.ResultsThere were no differences in demographic, anthropometric characteristics, and omega-3 intake between the healthy reference group and the ASD children at baseline. Children with ASD showed the higher plasma percentages of palmitic acid and total saturated FA and lower total omega-6 polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) compared with healthy children. An increased level of DHA and reduced EPA level in erythrocytes were detected in the ASD group vs. the reference group. After 6 months of treatment, the ASD group that received DHA enriched product significantly increased the plasma and erythrocyte percentages of DHA, but no differences were observed in the clinical test scores and other parameters as plasma cytokines between the two groups of ASD related to the intervention.ConclusionSpanish children with ASD exhibit an appropriate omega-3 FA status in plasma and erythrocytes. Neither a clinical improvement of ASD children nor a better anti-inflammatory or fatty acid state has been found after an intervention with DHA/EPA for 6 months. So, the prescription of n-3 LC-PUFA and other dietary supplements in ASD should be only indicated after a confirmed alteration of FA metabolism or omega-3 LC-PUFA deficiency evaluated by specific erythrocyte FA.Clinical Trial Registration[www.ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [NCT03620097].

Omega-3 Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in the Elderly: A Review

The omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 LC-PUFAs) family includes eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA). Although seafood is the richest source of omega-3 LC-PUFAs, because diet alone is often insufficient in older people, they may require food supplements and enriched food as sources of omega-3 LC-PUFAs. It has been reported that long-term intake of 3-5 g/d EPA + DHA as supplements is safe for adults; omega-3 LC-PUFAs exert cardio-metabolic protective effects and improve cognitive health, mood, diabetes, insulin resistance, and vascular endothelial cell function. Furthermore, these acids exert beneficial effects on heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, inflammatory problems, autoimmune disease, and cancer. Their pleiotropic nature is manifested as reduced triglyceride levels, management of hypertension, and obesity/metabolic syndrome, and reduced mortality. These key nutrients modulate inflammation and platelet aggregation and are effective in preventing and treating negative consequences of aging. A recent meta-analysis of EPA trials revealed a higher reduction in the relative risk in cardiovascular outcomes for EPA than for EPA + DHA. This review analyzes the influence of omega-3 PUFAs on the brain, heart, metabolism, vascular endothelial and immune functions, and muscle and bone health in the elderly.

The effect of long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on muscle mass and function in sarcopenia: A scoping systematic review and meta-analysis.

Sarcopenia is characterized by the progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and function, which reduces mobility and quality of life. Risk factors for sarcopenia include advanced age, physical inactivity, obesity, and chronic diseases such as cancer or rheumatoid arthritis. Omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC PUFAs) might be associated with a reduction in risk of sarcopenia due to their anti-inflammatory effects. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to quantify the effects of omega-3 LC PUFAs on muscle mass, volume and function parameters. The National Library of Medicine's MEDLINE/PubMed database was searched on 9th October 2020 for randomized controlled trials that used omega-3 LC PUFAs as an intervention with muscle-related endpoints. A snowballing search to identify additional studies was completed on 23rd April 2021. The meta-analysis was conducted using meta-essentials worksheet 3. Bias was assessed using the Jadad scale. 123 studies were identified with the systematic searches. Most studies were performed in disease populations, such as cancer or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or in healthy individuals after a fatiguing exercise bout. The endpoints lean body mass, skeletal muscle mass, mid-arm muscle circumference, handgrip strength, quadriceps maximal voluntary capacity (MVC), and 1-repetition maximum chest press were selected for meta-analysis based on the number of available studies; thus 66 studies were included in the quantitative synthesis. Using a random effects model and 2-tailed p-value, there was a significant relationship in favor of omega-3 LC PUFA supplementation for lean body mass (effect size 0.27, 95%CI 0.04 to 0.51), skeletal muscle mass (effect size 0.31, 95%CI 0.01 to 0.60) and quadriceps MVC (effect size 0.47, 95%CI 0.02 to 0.93). The results indicate that there is a positive effect of omega-3 LC PUFA supplementation on overall body muscle mass and strength. Small study size and heterogeneity limit the applicability of these findings for sarcopenia prevention. Larger trials in populations at risk of sarcopenia would strengthen the evidence base.

Low Omega-3 intake is associated with high rates of depression and preterm birth on the country level

Low circulating levels of long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC omega-3 PUFA) have been linked to major depressive disorder (MDD) and preterm birth (PTB), and prenatal depression associates with PTB. We therefore hypothesized that low Omega-3 intake would associate with higher MDD and PTB rates on the country-level. To test this hypothesis, we obtained country-level estimates for omega-3 intake, MDD prevalence, PTB rate, and per capita income for 184 countries in 2010. We then estimated the LC omega-3 PUFA levels that these intakes produce by accounting for direct consumption and the endogenous conversion of ingested plant-based precursors. Penalized splines indicated that MDD and PTB rates decreased linearly with increasing LC omega-3 PUFA, up to ~ 1000 mg/day for MDD and up to ~ 550 mg/day for PTB. Adjusted linear regression models below these thresholds revealed that a one standard deviation increase in LC omega-3 PUFA (380 mg/day) was associated with an MDD decrease of 5 cases/1000 people and a PTB decrease of 15 cases/1000 livebirths. In light of the extensive prior evidence on the individual-level, these findings indicate that low intake of LC omega-3 PUFA and its precursors may be elevating MDD and PTB rates in 85% of the countries studied.

The role of milk feeds and other dietary supplementary interventions in preventing allergic disease in infants: Fact or fiction?

Exclusive breastfeeding ideally up to 6 months of life is the feed of choice for infants and should be promoted by healthcare professionals. However, when human milk is not sufficient or not available, infant formula, generally cow's milk-based, meeting strictly regulated nutritional and safety requirements, are recommended. Human breastmilk feeding has a positive health impact for both mother and child, but there is limited evidence that it has a long-term protective effect on the development of allergic disease. Some studies have found an association of an increased risk to develop cow's milk allergy with early exposure to cow's milk protein in formula milk. As a result, over the last 30 years, partially hydrolyzed formulas (pHF) have gained popularity and, more recently, become embroiled in a debate about their role in the primary prevention of allergic outcomes. Similar debates exist in regards to the potential preventative effects of pre-, pro- and synbiotics as well as nutritional factors, notably vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids. This paper aims to critically address these aspects, drawing information from published data interpreted by an international expert group in paediatrics, allergy, gastro-intestinal diseases and nutrition. This group of experts emphasize that human milk is the optimal source of infant nutrition. With regards to pHFs, whilst no harm has been shown with their use and some studies have suggested potential benefit preventing atopic dermatitis in at risk infants, there is insufficient evidence for or against their routine recommendation for primary allergy prevention. The method of hydrolysation differs for every formula. There is insufficient evidence to recommend supplementation with vitamin D, omega-3 LCPUFA, specific prebiotic oligosaccharides or specific probiotic strains during pregnancy, lactation and early life to prevent the development of allergic disease in children. There remains a need for well-designed trials with the currently commercialised pHFs and supplements to allow for better clarity and evidence-based recommendations.

Effect of omega-3 lcpufa supplementation on maternal fatty acid and oxylipin concentrations during pregnancy

Omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) have been associated with a reduction in risk for preterm birth. However, there is limited understanding of how fatty acids and their bioactive derivatives (oxylipins) change over the course of pregnancy. Here we document the changes in concentration of fatty acids and oxylipins during pregnancy and how fatty acid status and oxylipin concentrations are affected by supplementation with omega-3 LCPUFA. We also investigate the degree to which fatty acid and oxylipin changes across pregnancy are influenced by baseline omega-3 status. We profiled the fatty acids in all lipids in dried blood spots (total blood fatty acids) by gas chromatography and free (unesterified) fatty acids and their associated oxylipins in separate dried blood spot samples by LC-MS-MS collected from a random sample of 1263 women with a singleton pregnancy who participated in the ORIP (Omega-3 fats to Reduce the Incidence of Prematurity) trial. ORIP is a double-blind, randomized controlled trial involving 5544 participants and designed to determine the effect of supplementing the diets of pregnant women with omega-3 LCPUFA on the incidence of early preterm birth. Maternal whole blood finger prick samples were collected at baseline (~14 weeks gestation) and at completion of the study intervention period (34 weeks gestation). The concentration of most total and free polyunsaturated fatty acids and their associated oxylipins declined over the course of pregnancy. Omega-3 LCPUFA supplementation increased total DHA and 7-HDHA and mitigated the decline in free DHA, 4-HDHA and 14-HDHA. The intervention had minimal or no effect on free EPA, LA, AA and their associated oxylipins. Omega-3 LCPUFA supplementation in women with higher omega-3 status at baseline was associated with a significant increase in 7-HDHA and 4-HDHA between the treatment and control whereas there were no differences between groups in 7-HDHA and 4-HDHA in women with intermediate or lower baseline omega-3 status. Our data suggest a differential response with or without omega-3 supplementation for DHA and DHA-derived oxylipins, which may have an important role to play in modulating pregnancy duration. Further work is needed to understand their role, which may allow us to better tailor omega-3 supplementation for preterm birth prevention.

May omega-3 fatty acid dietary supplementation help reduce severe complications in Covid-19 patients?

In around 10% of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients, coronavirus disease-2019 (Covid-19) symptoms are complicated with a severe lung damage called Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), which is often lethal. ARDS is mainly associated with an uncontrolled overproduction of immune cells and cytokines, called “cytokine storm syndrome”; it appears 7–15 days following the onset of symptoms, leading to systemic inflammation and multiple organ failure. Because they are well-known metabolic precursors of specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators (SPMs), omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 LC-PUFAs) could help improve the resolution of the inflammatory balance, limiting therefore the level and duration of the critical inflammatory period. Omega-3 LC-PUFAs may also interact at different stages of the viral infection, notably on the virus entry and replication. In the absence of demonstrated treatment and while waiting for vaccine possibility, the use of omega-3 LC-PUFAs deserve therefore to be considered, based on previous clinical studies suggesting that omega-3 supplementation could improve clinical outcomes of critically ill patients at the acute phase of ARDS. In this context, it is crucial to remind that the omega-3 PUFA dietary intake levels in Western countries remains largely below the current recommendations, considering both the omega-3 precursor α-linolenic acid (ALA) and long chain derivatives such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). An optimized omega-3 PUFAs status could be helpful to prevent infectious diseases, including Covid-19.

Expert Opinion on Benefits of Long-Chain Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA and EPA) in Aging and Clinical Nutrition.

Life expectancy is increasing and so is the prevalence of age-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Consequently, older people and patients present with multi-morbidities and more complex needs, putting significant pressure on healthcare systems. Effective nutrition interventions could be an important tool to address patient needs, improve clinical outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. Inflammation plays a central role in NCDs, so targeting it is relevant to disease prevention and treatment. The long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 LCPUFAs) docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are known to reduce inflammation and promote its resolution, suggesting a beneficial role in various therapeutic areas. An expert group reviewed the data on omega-3 LCPUFAs in specific patient populations and medical conditions. Evidence for benefits in cognitive health, age- and disease-related decline in muscle mass, cancer treatment, surgical patients and critical illness was identified. Use of DHA and EPA in some conditions is already included in some relevant guidelines. However, it is important to note that data on the effects of omega-3 LCPUFAs are still inconsistent in many areas (e.g., cognitive decline) due to a range of factors that vary amongst the trials performed to date; these factors include dose, timing and duration; baseline omega-3 LCPUFA status; and intake of other nutrients. Well-designed intervention studies are required to optimize the effects of DHA and EPA in specific patient populations and to develop more personalized strategies for their use.

Inflammation (IL-1β) Modifies the Effect of Vitamin D and Omega-3 Long Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Core Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder-An Exploratory Pilot Study‡.

Background: The role of vitamin D and omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 LCPUFA) in improving core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children has been investigated by a few randomised controlled trials and the results are mixed and inconclusive. The response to treatment with these nutrients is heterogenous and may be influenced by inflammatory state. As an exploratory analysis, we investigated whether inflammatory state would modulate the effect of these nutrients on core symptoms of ASD. Methods: Seventy-three New Zealand children with ASD (2.5–8.0 years) completed a 12-month randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of vitamin D (VID, 2000 IU/day), omega-3 LCPUFA; (OM, 722 mg/day docosahexaenoic acid), or both (VIDOM). Non-fasting baseline plasma interleukin-1β (IL-1β) was available for 67 children (VID = 15, OM = 21, VIDOM = 15, placebo = 16). Children were categorised as having undetectable/normal IL-1β (<3.2 pg/ml, n = 15) or elevated IL-1β (≥3.2 pg/mL, n = 52). The Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) questionnaire was used to assess core symptoms of ASD (baseline, 12-month). Mixed model repeated measure analyses (including all children or only children with elevated IL-1β) were used. Results: We found evidence for an interaction between baseline IL-1β and treatment response for SRS-total, SRS-social communicative functioning, SRS-awareness and SRS-communication (all Pinteraction < 0.10). When all children were included in the analysis, two outcome comparisons (treatments vs. placebo) showed greater improvements: VID, no effect (all P > 0.10); OM and VIDOM (P = 0.01) for SRS-awareness. When only children with elevated IL-1β were included, five outcomes showed greater improvements: OM (P = 0.01) for SRS-total; OM (P = 0.03) for SRS-social communicative functioning; VID (P = 0.01), OM (P = 0.003) and VIDOM (P = 0.01) for SRS-awareness. Conclusion: Inflammatory state may have modulated responses to vitamin D and omega-3 LCPUFA intervention in children with ASD, suggesting children with elevated inflammation may benefit more from daily vitamin D and omega-3 LCPUFA supplementation.

N-3 PUFA Supplementation Alters Retinal Very-Long-Chain-PUFA Levels and Ratios in Diabetic Animal Models.

Long-chain (LC)-PUFAs act as precursors for the special class of retinal lipids known as very-long-chain (VLC)-PUFAs and the effect of diabetes on retinal VLC-PUFA levels is unexplored. In order to understand the supplemental effect of omega-3 (n-3) LC-PUFAs on decreasing levels of VLC-PUFAs due to diabetes, Nile rats, which develop diabetes spontaneously, and Akita mouse, a genetic diabetes model, are chosen. Human retinal punches from donors are collected from an eye bank; lipids are extracted and analyzed to study the alterations in VLC-PUFAs and their omega-3/omega-6 (n-3/n-6) ratios. Nile rats are fed a high-fat diet to induce hyperglycemia, and then an n-3 PUFA-rich diet is fed to the experimental group for 2 months. Diabetic male Akita mice and WT mice are fed with 5% fish-oil mixed in with their chow for 2 months to observe the effect of n-3 PUFAs. Results indicate that VLC-PUFA levels are lower in human diabetic and retinopathic retinal punches compared to age-matched controls. With supplementation of n-3 PUFAs, there is a significant increase in n-3/n-6 VLC-PUFA ratios in both animal models compared to diabetic controls. Dietary supplementation with n-3 LC-PUFAs helps to prevent progression of diabetes and associated retinopathy.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intake norms and preterm birth rate: a cross-sectional analysis of 184 countries

BackgroundThe preponderance of evidence now indicates that elevated long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC omega-3 PUFA) intake is often associated with reduced risk of preterm birth (PTB). This conclusion is...

A Randomised-Controlled Trial of Vitamin D and Omega-3 Long Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in the Treatment of Core Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children.

We evaluated the efficacy of vitamin D (VID), omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 LCPUFA, OM), or both (VIDOM) on core symptoms of ASD. New Zealand children with ASD (n = 73; aged 2.5-8.0years) received daily 2000IU vitamin D3, 722mg docosahexaenoic acid, both, or placebo. Outcome measures were Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) and Sensory Processing Measure (SPM). Of 42 outcome measures comparisons (interventions vs. placebo), two showed greater improvements (P = 0.03, OM and VIDOM for SRS-social awareness) and four showed trends for greater improvements (P < 0.1, VIDOM for SRS-social communicative functioning, OM for SRS-total, VIDOM for SPM-taste/smell and OM for SPM-balance/motion). Omega-3 LCPUFA with and without vitamin D may improve some core symptoms of ASD but no definitive conclusions can be made.

Omega-3 gantz azidoak eta osasuna

Kate luzeko omega-3 gantz-azido poliasegabeak, azido eikosapentaenoikoa (EPA) eta azido dokosahexaenoikoa (DHA) kasurako, kantitate handitan aurkitzen dira arrain koipetsuetan eta haietatik eratorritako arrain-olioan, zeina elikadura-osagarri gisa erabiltzen den (nutrazeutiko gisa, alegia). EPA zein DHA mintz zelularren fosfolipidoei gehitzen zaizkio, non lipooxigenasa eta ziklooxigenasa entzimen bidez jaria dai- tezkeen, eta zelula babesten duten hanturen kontrako produktuak eratu. Hainbat ikerketaren arabera, EPA eta DHA kontsumitzea baliagarria da zenbait gaixotasun ekiditeko edota haien tratamendurako, hantura-prozesuak eragindako gaixotasunetan bereziki. Hain zuzen ere, EPA eta DHAk hanturaren kontrako propietateak dituzte, bai erresolbina gisako hanturaren kontrako eragileak ekoiztuz, edota hantura eragileak blokeatuz. Ebidentzia zientifiko honen arabera, kate luzeko omega-3 gantz-azidoek zenbait aplikazio izan patologia kliniko edo nutrizional ezberdinen tratamenduan nahiz edota prebentzioan. Alabaina, gaur egun gantz-azido aseen kontsumoa zeharo hazi da, eta lipido onuragarrien kontsumoa, berriz, jaitsi egin da; era honetan, populazioaren atal handi batek omega-3 gantz-azidoen gabezia aurkezten du. Frogatu da egoera honek eragin handia duela endekapenezko gaixotasunen garapenean esaterako, gaixotasun kardiobaskularrak, minbizia, hantura-prozesuak eta bereziki ikusmenaren eta nerbio sistema zentralaren osasunean eta garapenean, non DHA kontzentrazio handiak dauden.

A randomised controlled trial of vitamin D and omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in the treatment of irritability and hyperactivity among children with autism spectrum disorder

Irritability and hyperactivity are common in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Because pharmacological treatments may have adverse effects, and despite limited evidence, caregivers/parents often use dietary supplements such as vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids to address these behavioural symptoms. As a secondary objective of the VIDOMA (Vitamin D and Omega-3 in ASD) trial, we evaluated the efficacy of vitamin D, omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid [omega-3 LCPUFA; docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)], or both on irritability and hyperactivity. New Zealand children with ASD (aged 2.5–8 years) participated in a 12-month randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of vitamin D (2000 IU/day, VID), omega-3 LCPUFA (722 mg/day DHA, OM), or both (2000 IU/day vitamin D + 722 mg/day DHA, VIDOM). The primary outcomes were the Aberrant Behaviour Checklist (ABC) domains of irritability and hyperactivity. Biomarkers (serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and omega-3 index) and primary outcomes were measured at baseline and 12-months. Out of 111 children who completed baseline data collection, 66% completed the study (VID = 19, OM = 23, VIDOM = 15, placebo = 16). After 12 months, children receiving OM (-5.0 ± 5.0, P = 0.001) and VID (-4.0±4.9, P = 0.01) had greater reduction in irritability than placebo (0.8±6.1). Compared to placebo, children on VID also had greater reduction in hyperactivity (-5.2±6.3 vs. -0.8±5.6, P = 0.047). Serum 25(OH)D concentration (nmol/L, mean±SD) increased by 27±14 in VID and by 36±17 in VIDOM groups (P < 0.0001), and omega-3 index (%, median (25th, 75th percentiles)) by 4.4 (3.3, 5.9) in OM and by 4.0 (2.0, 6.0) in VIDOM groups (P < 0.0001), indicating a good compliance rate. The results indicate that vitamin D and omega-3 LCPUFA reduced irritability symptoms in children with ASD. Vitamin D also reduced hyperactivity symptoms in these children.

Omega-3 LCPUFA supplementation improves neonatal and maternal bone turnover: A randomized controlled trial

The aim of this study was to evaluate for the first time the effect of omega-3 LC PUFA supplementation during pregnancy and lactation on bone metabolism in mothers and neonates. 110 pregnant women were divided in two groups: control group (400 mL/day of the control dairy drink); supplemented group (400 mL/day of the fish oil-enriched dairy drink). Plasma bone biomarkers and mineral content in erythrocyte cytosol were assessed. In mothers, DHA supplementation increased OC and OPN levels and decreased IL-6 and TNF-α levels at delivery, increasing PTH levels during lactation. In neonates, DHA supplementation increased ACTH, insulin and leptin, decreasing RANKL and IL-6 in umbilical vein; increased OPG and leptin and diminished TNF-α in umbilical artery; increased OC levels, lowered PTH and TNF-α at birth. DHA supplementation during pregnancy and lactation has beneficial effects on bone turnover in both mother and neonates, representing a non-pharmacological pathway to decrease bone loss.

Effects of immediate-release niacin and dietary fatty acids on acute insulin and lipid status in individuals with metabolic syndrome.

The nature of dietary fats profoundly affects postprandial hypertriglyceridemia and glucose homeostasis. Niacin is a potent lipid-lowering agent. However, limited data exist on postprandial triglycerides and glycemic control following co-administration of high-fat meals with a single dose of niacin in subjects with metabolic syndrome (MetS). The aim of the study was to explore whether a fat challenge containing predominantly saturated fatty acids (SFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) or MUFAs plus omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated (LCPUFAs) fatty acids together with a single dose of immediate-release niacin have a relevant role in postprandial insulin and lipid status in subjects with MetS. In a randomized crossover within-subject design, 16 men with MetS were given a single dose of immediate-release niacin (2 g) and ∼15 cal kg-1 body weight meals containing either SFAs, MUFAs, MUFAs plus omega-3 LCPUFAs or no fat. At baseline and hourly over 6 h, plasma glucose, insulin, C-peptide, triglycerides, free fatty acids (FFAs), total cholesterol, and both high- and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were assessed. Co-administered with niacin, high-fat meals significantly increased the postprandial concentrations of glucose, insulin, C-peptide, triglycerides, FFAs and postprandial indices of β-cell function. However, postprandial indices of insulin sensitivity were significantly decreased. These effects were significantly attenuated with MUFAs or MUFAs plus omega-3 LCPUFAs when compared with SFAs. In the setting of niacin co-administration and compared to dietary SFAs, MUFAs limit the postprandial insulin, triglyceride and FFA excursions, and improve postprandial glucose homeostasis in MetS. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.