The YOU-Fish Study: Fish and Omega 3 Supplementation in Young Adults

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the major causes of mortality, however, it is estimated that approximately 75% of all cases are preventable. Previous evidence has shown higher blood concentrations of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease owing to their ability to lower inflammation. The omega-3 index (O3I) is a commonly used marker of n-3 PUFA status, which refers to the percentage of n-3 long chain PUFAs (with respect to total fatty acids) in red blood cell membranes, with an O3I of \>8% associated with the lowest risk of CVD. Concerningly it's estimated that most of the population have an O3I ranging from 4-5%. Fish is a rich source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and has been shown to be one of the main predictors of a higher O3I. Current guidelines recommend the consumption of 2 portions of fish per week; however, current UK and Irish intakes are well below the current recommendations, particularly amongst young people. Additionally, professional bodies have noted that a daily omega-3 supplement, providing approximately 500mg EPA + DHA per day, is beneficial in increasing omeag-3 intakes amongst those who may exclude dietary sources such as fish. The regular consumption of fish or omega 3 supplement use could help to increase the O3I, however, it remains unknown as to whether the guidance surrounding these methods are effective in reaching the recommended target of 8%. Early interventions such as increasing the O3I (throughfish and/or supplements) into a lower risk category may be an effective intervention in the prevention of CVD. This human intervention study will investigate the effects of omega 3 supplements and fish on the O3I and vascular health of young adults. It is hypothesised that increasing fish consumption or taking omega 3 supplements will increase the O3I and improve the vascular health of young adults.