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Study note

Effects of 12 Wk of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation in Long-Distance Runners.

Updated Oct 17, 2026

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Human researchMedicine and science in sports and exercise2023Read the source on PubMed

What the study found

Omega-3 supplementation raised the omega-3 index, but did not improve the 1,500-metre time trial. The abstract's fitness and economy interpretations rely partly on within-group changes and pooled associations.

Participants and protocol

Twenty-six amateur male distance runners received omega-3 or medium-chain-triglyceride capsules during twelve weeks of endurance training.

A changed biomarker was not a faster 1,500 metres

Twenty-six amateur male long-distance runners aged at least 29 took omega-3 or placebo capsules during 12 weeks of endurance training. The omega-3 group increased its omega-3 index and the abstract reports changes in some laboratory performance measures. The intervention did not improve the 1,500-metre run time.

That split matters. A biomarker, VO2peak, or running-economy signal is not automatically a race-performance result. The small male sample, concurrent training, specific supplement dose, short race test, and pooled correlation analysis limit what can be inferred for other runners or distances. Review the exact groups and outcomes in the PubMed record and open full text.

For a supported running goal, do not add this supplement simply to chase a laboratory number. First identify the actual training or nutrition problem, protect the basics of food quality, energy availability, sleep, and consistent training, and use a qualified clinician or sports dietitian when supplementation, health conditions, pregnancy, medication, or adverse effects make the decision uncertain. Do not copy the study dose without individual guidance.

What this cannot establish

A significant change in one group alone does not prove a between-group benefit. This small study does not establish a race-time gain or justify a personal high-dose supplement regimen.

Publication details
Record
PubMed 36161864
Publication types
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't · research-article
Indexed subjects
Fatty Acids, Omega-3 · Docosahexaenoic Acids · Eicosapentaenoic Acid · Running · Dietary Supplements
Source record checked
2026-10-18

Publication type and subject indexing describe the record; they are not a quality grade or proof of a benefit. An abstract does not replace a review of the full methods and results.

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