New Study: Omega-3s Boost Lung Function during Sporting Activities

We’ve all heard of the wonders for our health of Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s have been toted for diminishing depression symptoms, aiding in weight loss, heart and cardiovascular health, and many other potential benefits for short term and chronic conditions and diseases. One of the most recent studies on Omega-3s has found that your lungs can also be positively, especially during sporting activities.

The Research Speaks for Itself

A new study out of Germany and Iran studied the effects of Omega-3s on wrestlers. The subjects were followed closely over 12 weeks of training with supplementation. The results were striking, showing “improvements in numerous measures of lung capacity, including lung volume [forced vital capacity (FVC)] and airflows [forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1)],” thereby making a solid connection to the supplementation in positive use.

Details of the Study

The study took a look at 40 amateur male wrestlers in their late teens that did not smoke and had an average BMI of 22.75kg. These 40 were divided up into four groups: a placebo group, a training plus placebo group, a group that took Omega-3s and had no training, and a group that trained and had Omega-3 supplementation.

The Future of Omega-3s and Sports Nutrition

Though studies are still be done and findings uncovered, recent reports have scientists saying that we will soon see Omega-3 fatty acid supplements directed at the sports nutrition market. They have always had their place in that market regarding cardiovascular strength; but now, they are looking at becoming a “focus on all sports nutrition marketing,” as noted by the Nutrition Business Journal.

In conclusion

Of course studies are always being optimized by more specific studies on the subject. And while at this time, no truly definitive conclusions can be drawn from the use of omegas and exercise, it does say something that these 40 individuals showed measureable, marked improvement of lung function with supplementation.