Investigation of the Effect of Herbal Omega-3-Rich Food Consumption on Hematologic Parameters and Total Cholesterol Levels According to Physical Activity Status in Healthy Individuals

Abstract

Objective: It is known that walnut consumption has favorable effects on health. Walnuts are known to be a food rich in unsaturated fatty acids and herbal omega-3 fatty acids. This study investigated the effects of walnut (plant omega-3) consumption on hematologic factors in healthy adults with a certain physical activity level. Methods: Healthy participants in this study were offered thirty grams of walnuts per day for three weeks. Walnuts were consumed on an empty stomach or with breakfast every morning for three weeks. The blood values of people were measured at the beginning and the end of the study. Hematological parameters were measured in the routine blood test from blood taken. Results: The effect of a consumption rich in vegetable omega-3 products on hematologic factor levels caused a significant difference in MCH (p=0.001), MCHC (p=0.001) and LENFOSIT (p=0.001) levels. A significant increase in HCT levels was found only in male subjects. No significant changes were observed in other hematologic parameters. In addition, although a decrease in TC levels (p=0.023) and an increase in MONOSITE levels (p=0.027) were observed after consumption of plant omega-3 in active individuals, this difference was not observed in sedentary individuals. On the other hand, sedentary individuals showed an increase in LENFOSITE levels after consumption of plant-based omega-3 (p=0.016), whereas this difference was not observed in active individuals. There was also a statistically significant difference in carbohydrate, PUFA and a-linolenic acid intake compared to TBSA. There were no significant differences in energy, cholesterol, monounsaturated fatty acid and saturated fatty acid intakes. Conclusion: In this study, the addition of plant omega-3 fatty acids to the diet of healthy volunteers affected some hematologic factors and is thought to have a stimulating effect against cells that defend the body. It was also observed that the effect on hematologic factors and cholesterol levels was higher when plant omega-3 supplements were given to individuals who engaged in regular physical activity. We think that the effect of plant omega-3 fatty acids on hematologic factors should be further investigated.