Effect of 21-Day Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation on Exercise-Induced Secretory Factors and Inflammation Status in Young Men: A Randomized Double-Blind Trial

Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of 21-day dietary omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on the levels of postexercise inflammation response, oxidative stress, and selected exerkine secretion among physically active young men. Methods: In a randomized double-blind study, 24 physically active men were assigned to two groups: a supplementation group (n = 12), receiving 3250 mg of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) daily, and a placebo group (n = 12). Blood samples were collected before and after twenty-one days of dietary supplementation to measure total fatty acids and inflammatory markers, including IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, BDNF, and FGF23. Results: After 21 days of n-3 fatty acid supplementation, there were no significant changes in anaerobic performance parameters. However, significant interactions were found in the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), FGF-23, IL-1β, IL-1Ra, IL-6, and IL-10 in response to exercise and supplementation. Conclusions: 21 days of n-3 fatty acid supplementation modified PUFA content and influenced inflammation status, but did not affect maximal anaerobic performance.