Fish oil increases peripheral capillary blood cell velocity in humans

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Nutritional Science
• Microcirculation Research

Background:

• Fish oils rich in n-3 fatty acids are known to affect platelet aggregation and lipid profiles.
• Previous research has not extensively studied the in vivo impact of fish oils on human microcirculatory blood flow.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of fish oil supplementation on capillary blood flow velocity (CBV) in humans.
• To compare the effects of fish oil versus olive oil on microcirculation and related physiological parameters.

Main Methods:

• A single-blind study involving 21 male subjects randomly assigned to fish oil or olive oil groups for three weeks.
• Measurements included capillary blood flow velocity (CBV), plasma lipids, blood viscosity, blood pressure, and erythrocyte/platelet fatty acid profiles before and after supplementation.

Main Results:

• Fish oil supplementation led to a significant 1.75-fold increase in CBV, while the olive oil group showed no change.
• Increased n-3 fatty acids were observed in platelets and erythrocytes of the fish oil group.
• Fish oil reduced plasma triglycerides, and olive oil decreased blood pressure; blood viscosity remained unchanged in both groups.

Conclusions:

• Fish oil supplementation enhances capillary blood flow velocity (CBV) in humans.
• The observed increase in CBV is likely due to alterations in vascular tone, independent of changes in blood pressure or viscosity.
• Dietary n-3 fatty acids play a role in modulating microcirculatory function.