The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on the Omega-3 Index, erythrocyte membrane composition, cognitive function, hormonal profile, speed, endurance performance, and hematological parameters in competitive athletes aged 16-35 years.
Male competitive soccer players aged 16-35 years.
Regular participation in organized soccer training and competition.
A minimum of 6 years of systematic soccer training experience.
Participation in regular team training during the study period.
Current use of omega-3 fatty acid supplements or fish-oil products.
Use of omega-3 supplements within the 3 months preceding enrollment.
Known allergy or hypersensitivity to fish, seafood, fish oil, or any ingredient of the study supplements.
Diagnosed cardiovascular, metabolic, endocrine, gastrointestinal, neurological, inflammatory, autoimmune, or hematological disease.
Parallel
EPA + DHA supplements
Dietary supplementParticipants will randomly assigned to the supplemented group. The supplement will be administered in a dose of 4 capsules twice a day for 4 weeks. Daily dose will contain 3500mg EPA + DHA
Placebo
Dietary supplementParticipants will randomly assigned to the Placebo group. The placebo will be administered in a dose of 4 capsules twice a day for 4 weeks. Daily dose will contain 3500mg MCT.
Change in Omega Index
The Omega-3 Index will be assessed in erythrocytes as the combined percentage of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) relative to total fatty acids in erythrocyte membranes. Blood samples will be collected at baseline and after the 4-week supplementation period. In addition to the Omega-3 Index, the erythrocyte fatty acid profile, including individual omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, arachidonic acid (AA), and trans fatty acids, will be assessed. Changes from baseline to the end of the 4-week intervention will be evaluated.
Neuromuscular function
Neuromuscular function was assessed using tensiomyography (TMG), a non-invasive method for evaluating the contractile properties of skeletal muscles. Parameters including contraction time (Tc), delay time (Td), sustain time (Ts), relaxation time (Tr), and maximal radial displacement (Dm) were measured at baseline and after the 4-week intervention.
Hematological parameters and hormones
Hematological parameters were assessed using fasting venous blood samples. Outcome measures included complete blood count variables, including red blood cell count, white blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelet count, and red blood cell indices. Also testosteron and cortisol concentration was measured. Changes from baseline to the end of the 4-week intervention were evaluated.
Lipoprteine profile
The lipoprotein profile was assessed using fasting blood samples. Outcome measures included total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides. Changes from baseline to the end of the 4-week intervention were evaluated.
Cognitive function
Cognitive function was assessed using the Corsi Block-Tapping Test, which evaluates visuospatial working memory, short-term memory capacity, and executive cognitive performance. Changes in test performance were compared between baseline and the end of the 4-week intervention.
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