The effect of fish oil supplementation on the promotion and preservation of lean body mass, strength, and recovery from physiological stress in young, healthy adults: a systematic review

Abstract

Abstract Context Military personnel are subjected to physiologically stressful environments during combat and its associated training. Evidence suggests that fish oil–derived n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (FO n-3 PUFAs) may affect military personnel’s performance by promoting or preserving lean body mass, strength, and power, while enhancing recovery from training-associated muscle damage. Objective Following PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review assessed the evidence for FO n-3 PUFA supplementation across various military-relevant outcomes related to physical performance in healthy adult populations. Data Sources The PubMed, Embase, and the CINAHL databases were searched along with references lists of selected articles and reviews. Data Extraction Eighteen trials were assessed for bias, and descriptive data were extracted. Data Analysis Of the 18 studies included, 12 trials favored FO n-3 PUFA supplementation in ≥ 1 of the performance outcomes. Conclusion Overall, FO n-3 PUFA supplementation likely preserves strength and very likely enhances recovery from physiological stress in young, healthy adults. However, FO n-3 PUFAs’ role in promoting or preserving lean body mass or promoting strength is unclear and warrants additional investigation. Systematic Review Registration PROSPERO registration no. CRD42020152786.