Positive Health Online

Abstract

VERICEL and colleagues, Institut National de la Sante et de la Recherche Medicale U. 352, Biochimie & Pharmacologie, Bat 406, INSA-Lyon, 20 Ave A. Einstein, 69621, Villeurbanne, France, evelyne.vericel@insa-lyon.fr investigated the effect of a low-dose supplement of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on platelet function, blood pressure and other parameters affecting cardiovascular function in healthy elderly subjects.

Background

Methodology

In this randomized, controlled clinical trial, 20 healthy elderly subjects ingested one capsule per day of 600 mg RO-PUFA triglycerides (corresponding to 150 mg docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and 30 mg eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)) or placebo (600 mg sunflower oil) for 42 days.

Results

The n-3 PUFA group showed a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure and trends towards decreased platelet activation and decreased basal formation of thromboxane B(2). This group also showed a slight but significant increase in DHA in their phosphatidylethanolamine fraction, a significant increase in vitamin E level, and a significant decrease in basal production of malondialdehyde. The placebo group showed no modifications in these parameters.

Conclusion

From these findings, the authors concluded that a small intake of n-3 PUFAs decreased oxidative stress on platelets and could benefit individuals with tendencies to atherothrombosis by lowering cell peroxide tone.

References

Vericel E et al. The influence of low intake of n-3 fatty acids on platelets in elderly people. Atherosclerosis 147 (1): 187-92. Nov 1999. @i:63