1
|
Anthony R, Jaffrey N, Byron C, Peoples GE, Macartney MJ. Omega-3 Status Evaluation in Australian Female Rugby League Athletes: Ad Libitum Fish Oil Provision Results in a Varied Omega-3 Index. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2024; 34:218-222. [PMID: 38648883 DOI: 10.1123/ijsnem.2023-0257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Optimal omega-3 status, influenced by increased intake of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), is vital for physiological health. This study investigated the impact of ad libitum fish oil supplementation on the omega-3 status of female athletes in a professional rugby league team during a competitive season. Twenty-four (n = 24) athletes participated, and their omega-3 status was assessed using the Omega-3 Index (O3I) and arachidonic acid (AA) to EPA ratio through finger-prick blood samples taken at the start and end of the season. They were given access to a fish oil supplement (PILLAR Performance, Australia) with a recommended daily dose of four capsules per day (2,160 mg EPA and 1,440 mg docosahexaenoic acid). At the beginning of the season, the group mean O3I was 4.77% (95% confidence interval [CI: 4.50, 5.04]) and the AA to EPA ratio was 14.89 (95% CI [13.22, 16.55]). None of the athletes had an O3I exceeding 8%. By the season's end, the O3I was a significantly increased to 7.28% (95% CI [6.64, 7.93], p < .0001) and AA to EPA ratio significantly decreased to a mean of 6.67 (95% CI [5.02, 8.31], p < .0001), driven primarily by the significant increase in EPA of +1.14% (95% CI [0.77, 1.51], p < .0001). However, these changes were varied between the athletes and most likely due to compliance. This study has demonstrated that using the objective O3I feedback scale is possible with elite female rugby athletes, but individual strategies will be required to achieve daily intake targets of EPA + DHA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Anthony
- Faculty of Science Medicine and Health, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicola Jaffrey
- Sports Dietitian, St. George Illawarra Dragons, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Caitlin Byron
- Sports Dietitian, St. George Illawarra Dragons, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Gregory E Peoples
- Faculty of Science Medicine and Health, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael J Macartney
- Faculty of Science Medicine and Health, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Alves Vas FJ, Grijota Pérez FJ, Toro-Román V, Sánchez IB, Maynar Mariño M, Barrientos Vicho G. Changes in the Fatty Acid Profile in Erythrocytes in High-Level Endurance Runners during a Sports Season. Nutrients 2024; 16:1895. [PMID: 38931250 DOI: 10.3390/nu16121895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Fatty acids (FAs) are an essential component of the erythrocyte membrane, and nutrition and physical exercise are two variables that affect their structure and function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the erythrocyte profile in a group of high-level endurance runners, as well as the changes in different FAs, throughout a sports season in relation to the training performed. A total of 21 high-level male endurance runners (23 ± 4 years; height: 1.76 ± 0.05) were evaluated at four different times throughout a sports season. The athletes had at least 5 years of previous experience and participated in national and international competitions. The determination of the different FAs was carried out by gas chromatography. The runners exhibited low concentrations of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and omega-3 index (IND ω-3), as well as high values of stearic acid (SA), palmitic acid (PA), and arachidonic acid (AA), compared to the values of reference throughout the study. In conclusion, training modifies the erythrocyte FA profile in high-level endurance runners, reducing the concentrations of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) such as DHA and AA and increasing the concentrations of saturated fatty acids (SFAs) such as SA and the PA. High-level endurance runners should pay special attention to the intake of PUFAs ω-3 in their diet or consider supplementation during training periods to avoid deficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Fco Javier Grijota Pérez
- Sport Science Faculty, Department of Physiology, University of Extremadura, 10003 Caceres, Spain
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Isabel I University, 09003 Burgos, Spain
| | - Víctor Toro-Román
- Research Group in Technology Applied to High Performance and Health, Department of Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, TecnoCampus, 08302 Mataró, Spain
| | | | - Marcos Maynar Mariño
- Sport Science Faculty, Department of Physiology, University of Extremadura, 10003 Caceres, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Finnegan E, Daly E, Ryan L. Nutritional Considerations of Irish Performance Dietitians and Nutritionists in Concussion Injury Management. Nutrients 2024; 16:497. [PMID: 38398823 PMCID: PMC10891776 DOI: 10.3390/nu16040497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Sport-related concussion incidence has increased in many team-based sports, such as rugby, Gaelic (camogie, hurling, football), and hockey. Concussion disrupts athletes' brain function, causing an "energy crisis" that requires energy and nutrient support to restore function and heal. Performance dietitians and nutritionists play a role in supporting athletes' post-injury nutritional demands. This study aimed to investigate Irish performance dietitians' and nutritionists' knowledge and implementation of nutritional strategies to manage and support athletes' recovery following concussion. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with seventeen (n = 17) Irish performance dietitians and nutritionists recruited from the Sport and Exercise Nutrition register and other sporting body networks across Ireland. Participants practised or had practised with amateur and/or professional athletes within the last ten years. All interviews and their transcripts were thematically analysed to extract relevant insights. These data provided valuable insights revealing performance dietitians and nutritionists: (1) their awareness of concussion events and (2) their use of nutritional supports for concussion management. Furthermore, the research highlighted their implementation of 'novel nutritional protocols' specifically designed to support and manage athletes' concussion recovery. There was a clear contrast between participants who had an awareness and knowledge of the importance of nutrition for brain recovery after sport-related concussion(s) and those who did not. Participants presenting with a practical understanding mentioned re-emphasising certain foods and supplements they were already recommending to athletes in the event of a concussion. Performance dietitians and nutritionists were keeping up to date with nutrition research on concussions, but limited evidence has prevented them from implementing protocols in practice. Meanwhile, participants mentioned trialling/recommending nutritional protocols, such as carbohydrate reloading, reducing omega-6 intake, and acutely supplementing creatine, omega-3 fish oils high in Docosahexaenoic acid, and probiotics to support brain healing. Performance dietitians' and nutritionists' use of nutrition protocols with athletes following concussion was linked to their knowledge and the limited scientific evidence available. Nutrition implementation, therefore, may be overlooked or implemented with uncertainty, which could negatively affect athletes' recovery following sports-related concussions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lisa Ryan
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Nutrition, Atlantic Technological University (ATU), H91 T8NW Galway, Ireland; (E.F.); (E.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tomczyk M, Heileson JL, Babiarz M, Calder PC. Athletes Can Benefit from Increased Intake of EPA and DHA-Evaluating the Evidence. Nutrients 2023; 15:4925. [PMID: 38068783 PMCID: PMC10708277 DOI: 10.3390/nu15234925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Fatty fish, which include mackerel, herring, salmon and sardines, and certain species of algae (e.g., Schizochytrium sp., Crytthecodiniumcohnii and Phaeodactylumtricornutum) are the only naturally rich sources of the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). EPA and DHA are the most biologically active members of the n-3 PUFA family. Limited dietary sources and fluctuating content of EPA and DHA in fish raise concerns about the status of EPA and DHA among athletes, as confirmed in a number of studies. The beneficial effects of EPA and DHA include controlling inflammation, supporting nervous system function, maintaining muscle mass after injury and improving training adaptation. Due to their inadequate intake and beneficial health-promoting effects, athletes might wish to consider using supplements that provide EPA and DHA. Here, we provide an overview of the effects of EPA and DHA that are relevant to athletes and discuss the pros and cons of supplements as a source of EPA and DHA for athletes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maja Tomczyk
- Department of Biochemistry, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Jeffery L. Heileson
- Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76706, USA
- Nutrition Services Department, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Mirosław Babiarz
- Department of Physiology, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland;
| | - Philip C. Calder
- School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK;
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hooks MP, Madigan SM, Woodside JV, Nugent AP. Dietary Intake, Biological Status, and Barriers towards Omega-3 Intake in Elite Level (Tier 4), Female Athletes: Pilot Study. Nutrients 2023; 15:2821. [PMID: 37447148 DOI: 10.3390/nu15132821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) have unique properties which benefit athlete populations. The literature investigating NCAA collegiate, rugby sevens and German endurance athletes indicates suboptimal n-3 PUFA dietary intake and biological status. The aims of this study were: (i) to explore the dietary intakes and FA profiles of elite level, team-based, female athletes and (ii) to understand perceived barriers towards achieving n-3 dietary guidelines. A total of 35 athletes (24.8 ± 4.5 years) completed both a questionnaire and a finger prick test. All the participants reported consuming fish and seafood over the previous six months however only nine athletes consumed ≥ 2 servings of fish per week. Four participants reported using an n-3 supplement. The mean omega-3 index (O3I; including supplementers) was below target levels of >8% (5.19 ± 0.86%). O3I was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in those consuming ≥ 2 servings of fish per week and/or supplements (5.91 ± 0.81%) compared with those who did not (4.82 ± 0.63%). The main barriers reported by those not consuming two servings of fish per week were sensory (n = 11; 42%), cooking skills (n = 10; 38%) and knowledge of n-3 benefits (n = 7; 27%). The current study shows that elite level female athletes present with suboptimal n-3 dietary intake and O3I due to their food preferences, cooking skills and n-3 knowledge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew P Hooks
- School of Biological Sciences, Institute for Global Food Security, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Sharon M Madigan
- Sport Ireland Institute of Sport, D15 Y52H Dublin, Ireland
- Sport and Human Performance Research Centre, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
| | - Jayne V Woodside
- Centre for Public Health, Institute for Global Food Security, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Anne P Nugent
- School of Biological Sciences, Institute for Global Food Security, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland, UK
- UCD Institute of Food and Health, School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Finnegan E, Daly E, Pearce AJ, Ryan L. Nutritional interventions to support acute mTBI recovery. Front Nutr 2022; 9:977728. [PMID: 36313085 PMCID: PMC9614271 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.977728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
When mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) occurs following an impact on the head or body, the brain is disrupted leading to a series of metabolic events that may alter the brain's ability to function and repair itself. These changes may place increased nutritional demands on the body. Little is known on whether nutritional interventions are safe for patients to implement post mTBI and whether they may improve recovery outcomes. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a systematic review to determine what nutritional interventions have been prescribed to humans diagnosed with mTBI during its acute period (<14 days) to support, facilitate, and result in measured recovery outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Finnegan
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Nutrition, Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Galway, Ireland
| | - Ed Daly
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Nutrition, Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Galway, Ireland
| | - Alan J. Pearce
- College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Lisa Ryan
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Nutrition, Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Galway, Ireland,*Correspondence: Lisa Ryan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Heileson JL, McGowen JM, Moris JM, Chapman-Lopez TJ, Torres R, Funderburk LK, Forsse JS. Body Composition, Eicosapentaenoic Acid, and Vitamin D are Associated with Army Combat Fitness Test Performance. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2022; 19:349-365. [PMID: 35813844 PMCID: PMC9261738 DOI: 10.1080/15502783.2022.2094717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffery L. Heileson
- Human Performance and Recreation, Baylor University, Department of Health, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Jared M. McGowen
- Human Performance and Recreation, Baylor University, Department of Health, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Jose M. Moris
- Human Performance and Recreation, Baylor University, Department of Health, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Tomas J. Chapman-Lopez
- Human Performance and Recreation, Baylor University, Department of Health, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Ricardo Torres
- Human Performance and Recreation, Baylor University, Department of Health, Waco, TX, USA
| | - LesLee K. Funderburk
- Human Performance and Recreation, Baylor University, Department of Health, Waco, TX, USA
- Baylor University, Human Sciences and Design, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Jeffrey S. Forsse
- Human Performance and Recreation, Baylor University, Department of Health, Waco, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|