effect of omega-3 supplementation on androgen profile and menstrual status in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized clinical trial

ABSTRACT

There is some evidence regarding the effect of poly unsaturated fatty acid intake on androgen levels and gonadal function in polycystic ovary syndrome [PCOS]. This study was conducted to determine the effect of omega-3 supplementation on sex hormone-binding protein [SHBG], testosterone, free androgen index [FAI] and menstrual status in women with PCOS. This double-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted on 78 overweight/obese women with PCOS. Participants were randomized to receive omega-3 [3gr/day] or placebo for 8 weeks. Data about weight, height and nutrient intake as well as blood samples were collected before and after intervention. Serum concentrations of testosterone [nmol/L] and SHBG [nmol/L] were measured. FAI was also calculated as the ratio of testosterone to SHBG. Seventy eight patients [age 26.92 +/- 5.46 yrs, Body Mass Index 31.69 +/- 4.84 Kg/m[2]] completed the study. There was no significant difference in mean age, weight, height, Body Mass Index and intake of energy, and macronutrients between 2 study groups before and after treatment. All the participants had irregular periods. After the trial the percentage of regular menstruation in the omega-3 group was more than the placebo group [47.2% vs.22.9%, p=0.049]. Furthermore, testosterone concentration was significantly lower in the omega-3 group compared with placebo, after supplementation [p=0.04]. SHBG and FAI did not change in either group. Omega-3 supplementation could reduce serum concentrations of testosterone and regulate menstrual cycle without significant effect on SHBG and FAI. Future studies with longer period of supplementation are warranted