Use of Omega-3 Supplements for the Amelioration of Glucose Levels and Lipid Profile Parameters in Female University: A Randomized Control Study

Aim: We aimed to evaluate the effect of omega-3 supplementation on the glucose levels and lipid profile parameters in female university students in Southern Gaza.

Materials and Methods: Sixty female university students were divided into two groups. The intervention group (n = 30) received omega-3 fatty acid supplementation (one capsule/day) for three months, while the control group students (n = 30) were allowed to consume standard oils. Blood samples (5 mL) were randomly collected using plain vacutainers before and after the three months of intervention. The blood glucose level and lipid profile parameters were measured using standard methods. Data were analysed using SPSS software.

Results: The present study showed that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation has a significant impact on blood glucose levels and lipid profile parameters. The levels of glucose (83.9 ± 8.8 vs. 101.0 ± 11.7 md/dL, P = 0.000), total cholesterol (141.6 ± 15.0 vs. 165.4 ± 31.4 mg/dL, P = 0.001), triglycerides (137.6 ± 4.1 vs. 151.1 ± 12.8 mg/dL, P = 0.000), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (67.1 ± 12.3 vs. 97.8 ± 32.8 md/dL, P = 0.000) significantly decreased, while the high density lipoprotein cholesterol significantly increased (47.0 ± 5.0 vs. 37.3 ± 2.1 mg/dL, P = 0.032) in the intervention group after omega-3 supplementation. In addition, BMI was significantly associated with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (r = 0.319, P = 0.016).

Conclusions: The present work documented a significant improvement in the glucose levels and lipid profile parameters following omega-3 supplementation in female university students. Therefore, we believe that regular consumption of omega-3 fatty acids can have a beneficial impact on dyslipidaemia, thus providing protection against heart diseases.