ω -6 and ω-3 from food and/or supplements, what about their beneficial effects in runners?

Omega-3 fatty acids are a family of unsaturated fatty acids including α-linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) while omega-6 fatty acids family contains the essential linoleic acid. Current western diets provide ratios of omega-6:omega-3 ranging from approximately 10:1 to 20:1 but it is known that a high intake of omega-6 increases prothrombotic and proaggregatory activities characterized by increases in blood viscosity and vasospasm and vasoconstriction. On the other hand, omega-3 exhibits antiinflammatory, antithrombotic, antiarrhythmic, hypolipidemic, and vasodilatory properties, so an increased consumption of omega-3 and a correct omega-6 and omega-3 ratio would be beneficial [1,2]. Aim of the study The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of ω-6: ω-3 (5:1) from both food and supplements on endurance runners suffering from high blood cholesterol and high blood pressure values. The effects of the treatment with ω-6: ω-3 (5:1) was evaluated in terms of body composition, cholesterol levels and blood pressure changes.