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High consumption of Ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids decrease plasma homocysteine: a meta-analysis of randomized,
Tao Huang1, Jusheng Zheng, Ying Chen
1Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County, Calif.)
|April 20, 2011
Summary
Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation significantly lowers plasma homocysteine (Hcy) levels. This meta-analysis confirms the benefit of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in reducing Hcy.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Cardiovascular Health
- Biochemistry
Background:
- High intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) is linked to reduced plasma homocysteine (Hcy).
- Previous human intervention studies on omega-3 PUFAs and Hcy levels yielded inconclusive results.
- Homocysteine is an amino acid linked to cardiovascular disease risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically evaluate the impact of omega-3 PUFA supplementation on plasma Hcy levels.
- To synthesize evidence from randomized, placebo-controlled trials.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across major databases (Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane).
- Included were 11 randomized, placebo-controlled trials comparing omega-3 PUFA supplementation to placebo.
- Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two investigators.
Main Results:
- The meta-analysis included 702 subjects from 11 trials.
- Omega-3 PUFA supplementation demonstrated a significant reduction in plasma Hcy levels.
- The weighted mean difference in Hcy was -1.59 μmol/L (95% CI: -2.34 to -0.83) compared to placebo.
Conclusions:
- This meta-analysis suggests that omega-3 PUFA supplementation effectively decreases plasma Hcy levels.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the clinical implications of reduced Hcy due to omega-3 PUFAs.
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