Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with a general state of low grade inflammation and oxidative stress. Given that omega-3 fatty acids can improve these factors in general, researchers investigated whether they can have the same effect for women with PCOS.

The study

This systematic review included 10 randomized controlled trials that investigated the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in women with PCOS. The risk of bias and quality of evidence in each study were assessed using the Cochrane criteria and GRADE methodology, respectively.

The results

Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation reduced high-sensitivity c-reactive protein and increased adiponectin. However, markers of oxidative stress did not change in response to omega-3 supplementation. The risk of bias in the studies was mostly moderate, and the quality of evidence was rated as moderate due to heterogeneity between studies.

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This Study Summary was published on November 5, 2020.