Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acids Supplementation on Oxygen uptake in Vegetarian Females

The aim of this work was the evaluation of Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on haemodynamics and oxygen uptake (VO2), as well as the concentration of glucose in the blood in vegetarian females. The research material included 18 vegetarian females with an average age of 21,2 ± 1,7 yr, body mass of 58,2±3, 96 kg and body height 167,3±3,42 cm. The subjects were randomly divided into 2 groups: Group S (n=10) was supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) with a daily dose of 2,6 g and a total 4 mg/g of a-tocopherol over a period of 14 days, while group C (n=8) was treated as a control and received a placebo. VO2max was evaluated by two methods – indirect Astrand and direct gasometric method. Besides resting heart rate (Polar Electro, Fin), systolic blood pressure (BP) was registered. Blood samples were drawn immediately after exercise and after 1 hour of recovery. Plasma glucose concentration was evaluated at rest and post exercise. The research indicated a lower caloric value of the diet in vegetarian females in comparison to average values registered in Polish females. The supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids significantly (p<0,001) increased VO2max evaluated indirectly, although it did not show such changes when measured gasometrical. The supplementation did not change significantly the values of systolic blood pressure and heart rate, however a tendency towards a decrease in these valuables occurred. The obtained research justifies further inquiry of omega-3 supplementation in vegetarians.