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Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation and Vascular Health Biomarkers - A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Mostafa Norouzzadeh1,2,3, Minoo Hasan Rashedi2,3, Niloofar Hamidi2,3
1The Persian Gulf Tropical Medicine Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran.
Journal of the American Nutrition Association
|January 6, 2026
Summary
Omega-3 fatty acids did not significantly impact pulse wave velocity in cardiovascular disease patients. However, they improved arterial wave reflection and endothelial function, with specific doses of EPA and DHA showing greater benefits.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Nutritional Science
- Biomarkers Research
Background:
- Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of mortality globally, often linked to vascular dysfunction.
- Dietary omega-3 fatty acids are explored for their potential to support vascular health, but efficacy and optimal dosages remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze the efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids on vascular health biomarkers.
- To investigate the dose-response effects of omega-3s in individuals with CVDs.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published up to May 2025.
- Included 20 RCTs with 1,208 participants; assessed risk of bias and certainty of evidence (GRADE).
- Analyzed effects on pulse wave velocity (PWV), augmentation index (AIx), and flow-mediated dilation (FMD).
Main Results:
- Omega-3 supplementation (0.3-4.7 g/day) did not significantly affect PWV.
- Omega-3s demonstrated improvement in AIx and enhanced FMD, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
- Optimal vascular outcomes may require approximately 1,650 mg EPA and 750 mg DHA daily, with moderate to low certainty of evidence.
Conclusions:
- Omega-3 fatty acids show potential in improving endothelial function and reducing arterial wave reflection.
- Specific dosages of EPA and DHA may be crucial for maximizing vascular benefits.
- Further rigorous trials are recommended to confirm findings and optimize clinical application.
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