Omega-3s May Boost Blood Flow, Performance in Athletes

A recent study suggests that supplements of omega-3 may increase nitric oxide in the blood and increase blood flow, leading to better exercise performance in cyclists.

Participants in the study included 13 elite cyclists who were given either 1.3 g of omega-3s or a placebo daily for three weeks. At the conclusion of the study, the researchers noted an average increase in nitric oxide levels of 9.6 micromoles per liter in the omega-3 group, while the placebo group showed increases of only 1.4 micromoles per liter.

The researchers also noted a 5.25% increase in flow-mediated dilation in the omega-3 group. This was associated with notable increases in maximal oxygen intake when compared with the placebo.

Researchers from the Academy of Physical Education in Katowice and the Medical University of Silesia conducted the study. It was published in the June 2015 issue of the European Journal of Sports Sciences.

Omega-3s have been linked to a number of health benefits, including alleviating arthritis pain, better moods, improved joint mobility, helping with age related macular degeneration, and aiding your immune system.

Because omega-3 fatty-acids are not found naturally in the human body, it is especially important to make sure that they are a part of your daily diet. Oily, dark fish such as tuna and salmon are high in DHA and EPA omega-3s.