The Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Added to Weight-Loss Diets on Body Composition, Plasma Leptin Levels and Blood Pressure

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the present study is to examine the effects of fish oil that is added to weight-loss diets on body composition, plasma leptin levels and blood pressure. Subjects and Methods: In this study, 40 premenopausal women (body mass index 30-35 kg/m2) without any clinically apparent disease were randomized into two groups. Cases in group I received 1 gram fish oil daily, plus an energy restricted diet for 12 weeks. Cases in group II received only an energy restricted diet for 12 weeks. Results: Plasma leptin, body composition and blood pressure were measured at the beginning of the study and 12th weeks of the study. The decreases in body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and body fat percentage were determined (p<0.05). There were no statistically significant difference was found between groups (p>0.05). The decrease in leptin levels was statistically significant between groups (p<0.05). The decrease in sistolic and diastolic blood pressures were observed (p<0.05), but the difference between groups were not found significant (p>0.05). Conclusion: Fish oil that is added to weight-loss diets had decreased plasma leptin levels of the obese, but had no effect on anthropometric measurements and blood pressure. In order to declare the efficient effects of fish oil, clear evidences based on long term periods with more high doses of supplementation were needed.