Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in sarcopenia management: a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Abstract
Sarcopenia frequently occurs with aging and leads to major adverse impacts on activities of daily living and quality of life in elderly individuals. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (omega-3 PUFAs) supplements are considered promising therapeutic agents for sarcopenia management; however, the evidence remains inconsistent. We reviewed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) about omega-3 PUFA supplementation in patients with sarcopenia or in those at high risk for sarcopenia. Network meta-analysis (NMA) procedures were conducted using a frequentist model. The primary outcomes were (1) upper-extremity muscle strength and (2) lower-extremity physical function. The NMA of 16 RCTs showed that the high-dose (more than 2.5g/day omega-3 PUFAs) group yielded the greatest improvement in both upper-extremity muscle strength and lower-extremity physical function [compared to placebo/standard care groups, standardized mean difference (SMD)=1.68, 95% confidence interval (95%CI)=0.03 to 3.33, and SMD=0.73, 95%CI=0.16 to 1.30, respectively], and the effects were reaffirmed in subgroup analyses of placebo-controlled RCTs or those excluding concurrent resistance training programs. None of the investigated omega-3 PUFAs supplementation was associated with significantly increased skeletal muscle mass, fat mass, or overall body weight. Our findings provide a basis for future large-scale RCTs to investigate the dose effects and clinical application of omega-3 PUFA supplementation in sarcopenia…
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