Supplementation with omega-3 and lean body mass in the general population: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Delpino et al., 2021 | Clin Nutr ESPEN | Meta Analysis

Citation

Delpino Felipe Mendes, Figueiredo Lílian Munhoz. Supplementation with omega-3 and lean body mass in the general population: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2021-Aug;44:105-113. doi:10.1016/j.clnesp.2021.05.002

Abstract

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Results from narrative reviews showed potential from omega-3 supplementation on lean body mass. In older adults, a previous meta-analysis showed significant results from omega-3 on lean body mass. This review aimed to investigate randomized clinical trials that evaluated the effects of omega-3 supplementation, compared to placebo, on lean body mass in humans. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in Pubmed, LILACS, SciELO, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, SPORTDiscus, and Cochrane Library. The authors assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane tool. Randomized clinical trials that evaluated the effects of omega-3 supplementation compared to placebo on lean body mass were included. RESULTS: In total, 11 studies were included, from which two found significant effects on lean body mass. In the meta-analysis, none of the results were significant. CONCLUSIONS: Omega-3 supplementation had no significant effect on lean body mass compared to placebo.

Key Findings

In total, 11 studies were included, from which two found significant effects on lean body mass. In the meta-analysis, none of the results were significant.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population older adults
Sample Size 11
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Aged
  • Body Composition
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3
  • Humans

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: omega-3

Provenance


Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09