Effects of omega-3 PUFA-enriched egg consumption on metabolic parameters in elderly adults with metabolic syndrome: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Abstract
Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) affects approximately one-third of community-dwelling older adults (≥65 years) and is characterized by concurrent dysregulation of glucose and lipid metabolism alongside chronic low-grade inflammation. Poor long-term adherence to conventional omega-3 supplementation has prompted interest in sustainable, food-based delivery systems. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)-enriched eggs-produced through dietary modification of hen feed to enhance eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) content-represent a palatable and easily incorporated dietary vehicle for sustained intervention.
Methods: This is a three-arm, parallel-group randomized controlled trial that will enroll 180 community-dwelling adults aged ≥ 65 years with MetS. Participants will be randomly allocated (1:1:1) to receive either omega-3 PUFA-enriched eggs, regular eggs, or no egg intervention (usual diet) for 12 weeks. Those assigned to the egg intervention groups will consume one boiled egg daily, five days per week. The control group will maintain their habitual dietary patterns without additional egg consumption. Biological samples (blood, urine, and stool) will be collected at baseline and weeks 4, 8, and 12. Plasma concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids, lipid metabolism indicators,inflammation and oxidative stress markers will be measured. Exploratory outcomes include comprehensive multi-omics profiling, encompassing metabolomics and gut microbiome…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design.
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