Long-Term Omega-3 and Omega-3 Index >8%: Effects on Physiological Recovery

Starting soon · Not applicable · Has a placebo group

Conditions studied: Focus on Omega 3 Index on Recovery

In brief

The Omega-3 Index measures how much of the Omega-3 fats EPA and DHA are built into red blood cell membranes. These fats are essential for health, but the body cannot make enough of them, so they must come from foods like oily fish or from supplements. The Index reflects long-term Omega-3 intake and is considered optimal at 8% or higher. Levels below this range have been linked with poorer cardiovascular health (Harris \& Von Schacky, 2004). . For athletes, Omega-3 research suggests they can help reduce inflammation, ease muscle soreness, and support immune function. Despite this, many elite athletes appear to have Omega-3 Index values around 4-5%, well below the recommended level of 8%. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate whether increasing the Omega-3 index has any recovery benefits post a bout of downhill running in athletes. Downhill running is commonly used as way to cause exercise-induced muscle damage and study recovery. The Omega-3 index will be increased with a daily fish oil supplement.

Key facts

Study ID

NCT07439601

Run by

St. Mary's University, Twickenham

People needed

46

Starts

2026-02-28

Expected to finish

2028-12-30

Last updated by the study team

2026-02-27

Who can join

Age: 18 and older, up to 50. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: accepted.

You may qualify if…

• An Omega-3 index of ≤ 6%
• Age 18-50 years
• Sub-elite to elite athletes from local sports teams (e.g. cycling, triathlon)
• Male and female

You may not qualify if…

• inflammatory diseases, injuries that prevent them exercising.

Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov

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