The benefits of omega-3 have long been known, but a recent study into omega-3 supplementation among male athletes has revealed some interesting results in respect of physiology and performance.
What Is Omega-3?
Omega-3s are a group of fatty acids that are essential for health. The most prominent types of omega-3 are DHA, EPA and ALA. We don’t produce omega-3s ourselves; we only get them through food or supplements. Although present in foods such as oily fish and some nuts and seeds, most of us do not get enough in our diet, which is where food supplements from brands such as www.vitortho.co.uk/ come in. Omega-3s are linked with better brain function, a lower risk of age-related eye degeneration and protection of the liver, brain and heart.
Omega-3 and Male Athletes
A recent study into the use of omega-3 supplements has some interesting results. In the study, a group of male athletes were split into three groups: EPA-rich, DHA-rich and placebos. In the non-placebo groups, a reduced exercising heart rate was found as well as a lowered sub-maximal rate of perceived exertion. In the EPA-rich group, the sub-maximal respiratory exchange ratio was also increased. These differences did not become apparent until the supplements had been taken for a period of six weeks.
The study reveals that supplements of omega-3, notably EPA-rich supplements, can have a positive effect on exercising heart rate, rate of perceived exertion and respiratory exchange ratio when taken over a sustained period of time. This is in addition to the known benefits to our organs, eyes and brain function.