DHA supplementation linked to improved endurance in female athletes

A study published in Frontiers in Nutrition has found that long-term DHA supplementation may improve red blood cell function and endurance in female athletes. Researchers in Germany conducted a four-month study involving 27 semi-professional female soccer players aged 18 to 35.

The participants received 1,000 mg of DHA daily alongside 12 g of whey protein isolate, while a reference group received no supplementation. The supplemented group saw their HS-Omega-3 Index (HS-O3I) rise from approximately 5.3% to 9.1%, moving closer to the clinical target range of 8% to 11%.

While the study did not show significant improvements in sprint speed, power, or anaerobic threshold, researchers noted an association between higher omega-3 levels and improved endurance. This is hypothesized to be caused by changes in erythrocyte membranes, which may enhance microvascular perfusion and oxygen transport to muscle fibers. The researchers also noted that omega-3 supplementation may offer benefits for female-specific health, such as reducing premenstrual symptoms.