Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation improves vascular function and reduces inflammation in obese adolescents

Abstract Objective Compared to normal weight adolescents, obese adolescents have lower serum omega-3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) concentrations, augmented inflammatory activity and endothelial dysfunction. We wanted to assess whether n-3 supplementation increases the serum n-3 PUFA concentration, improves vascular function and morphology, and lowers inflammation in obese adolescents. Methods Twenty-five obese adolescents (14 females, 11 males, age 15.7 ± 1.0 years, BMI 33.8 ± 3.9) were randomized to receive capsules containing either 1.2 g/day n-3 or placebo for 3 months. The study was performed using a double-blind, cross-over design with a 6-week washout period. Anthropometry, blood pressure measurements and fasting blood samples were obtained before and after each treatment period. The vascular structure and function was measured after each treatment period. Results The serum n-3 PUFA concentration increased with n-3 treatment. The reactive hyperemia response improved with n-3 treatment compared to placebo ( p Conclusion Daily supplementation with n-3 capsules increases the serum n-3 PUFA concentration, improves vascular function, and lowers the degree of inflammation in obese adolescents.