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The Impact of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation on Singing Training in Vocal Performers: A Non-Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study

Perrine BL, Monzón K, Weber LM, Sturdivant RX, Funderburk LK

Folia phoniatrica et logopaedica : official organ of the International Association of Logopedics and Phoniatrics (IALP), 2024

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Vocal performers often seek natural treatments to improve their vocal capability. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation may reduce inflammation and cause changes in body composition, such as loss of fat mass. The purpose of this study was to determine if omega-3 PUFA supplementation in combination with a singer's training regimen enhances singing training and body composition.

METHODS: This was a non-randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Forty-three college-level students were recruited and volunteered to serve as study participants. 3.0 g of omega-3 PUFA per day or 3.0 g of placebo per day were provided over a 10-week intervention. Participants completed Singing Voice Handicap Index (SVHI), Reflux Symptom Index (RSI), Evaluation of Ability to Sing Easily (EASE), Voice Range Profile (VRP), food records, and body composition measures at baseline and study end.

RESULTS: Thirty-five participants completed the study. SVHI was significantly different between groups (p = 0.0152; ƞ2 = 0.153). A minor third was added to the bottom of the range in 50% of males in the supplement group (placebo = 0%). Body composition measures were not statistically significant, although those in the supplement group lost more fat mass than placebo, p = 0.101.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: Omega-3 PUFA supplementation may be beneficial to improve how active singers feel about their voice and could potentially improve voice range in conjunction with voice…

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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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