SSE 221: Fish Oil for Healthy Aging - Potential Applications for Master Athletes

SSE 221: Fish Oil for Healthy Aging - Potential Applications for Master Athletes is organized by Gatorade Sports Science Institute (GSSI).

Course Expiration: 12/19/2025

Description:
Long chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFAs) are a class of biologically active fatty acids that play fundamental roles in the production of anti-inflammatory signalling molecules as well as serving as vital components of phospholipid membranes. The most well studied LC n-3 PUFAs are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5 n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6 n-3). Often associated with improved cardiovascular health, there is now emerging evidence that ingestion of LC n-3 PUFAs above population recommendations enhances skeletal muscle anabolism in older adults. Indeed, daily intake of ~ 5g/d of LC n-3 PUFAs has been shown to potentiate the muscle protein synthetic response to the infusion of insulin and amino acids and increase gains in skeletal muscle strength with resistance exercise training in older women. These findings suggest that LC n-3 PUFA intake could have ergogenic effects in older exercising adults. However, more recent work has failed to detect a positive impact of LC n-3 PUFA intake towards skeletal muscle in older persons. Yet, few studies have been conducted in highly-trained older adults, or ‘master athletes’ thus it is unclear if there is a benefit to increased LC n-3 PUFA  intake in this specific population. Aside from the potential ergogenic benefit, as some older adults possess sub-optimal LC n-3 PUFA status, there may be utility in increasing LC n-3 PUFAs ingestion in older persons to support healthy aging.

Course Objectives:

• Describe the current state of evidence regarding the impact of LC n-3 PUFA intake on the adaptive response of skeletal muscle to exercise training in older persons.  
• Define the strengths and limitations of assessing LC n-3 PUFA status in the context of the Sport and Exercise Science. 
• Identify various food and supplemental sources of LC n-3 PUFAs that could be used to increase LC n-3 PUFA intake.