Red blood cell omega-3 fatty acid content is negatively associated with purposeful gameplay header frequencies in collegiate women soccer players: Implications for diet and brain health

Abstract

Background: Frequent soccer heading negatively affects brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids are neuroprotective against head impacts. A biomarker of omega-3 tissue status, red blood cell (RBC) omega-3 content is reduced during soccer activity. However, whether these changes are associated with frequent heading impacts is unknown. Aim: Explore the association between soccer heading frequencies and RBC omega-3 status. Methods: A prospective cohort study in collegiate women soccer players ( n  =  16). Players’ RBC omega-3 status, Omega-3 Index, and self-reported gameplay header frequencies collected during a competitive season. Results: Mean Omega-3 Index (i.e., pre/postseason) was low (3.95  ±  0.44%). Postseason Omega-3 Index negatively correlated ( r  =  −0.545, p  =  0.029) with heading frequencies. Change in Omega-3 Index negatively correlated ( r  =  −0.663, p  =  0.005) with average headers per game. Conclusion: RBC omega-3 status is negatively influenced by frequent soccer heading throughout a competitive season which may have concerning implications for player brain health.