EFFECTS OF OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS ASSOCIATED WITH ANTIOXIDANT VITAMINS IN OVERWEIGHT AND OBESE CHILDREN.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Antioxidants and unsaturated fatty acids have protective effects in obesity. AIM: We investigated the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids associated with antioxidant vitamins in obese children. Magnesemia and calcemia were observed in relation with other metabolic parameters, before and after the treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

60 obese children were compared with 35 normal weight children. Each obese child received daily, one pill, containing: 130mg docosahexaenoic acid, 25mg of eicosapentaenoic acid, vitamin A 200µg, vitamin D 1,25µg, vitamin E 2,5mg and vitamin C 30mg for three months. All the participants were instructed not to change their lifestyle.

RESULTS

The serum values for these minerals and for 25(OH) vitamin D were lower in obese children. The obese children had insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and an imbalance of serum adipocytokines. In obese children, the body mass index was negatively correlated with calcemia (r=-0.34) and serum 25(OH) vitamin D (r=-0.33). The HOMA-IR was negatively correlated with magnesemia (r=-0.34) and serum adiponectin (r=-0.29). The treatment improved the mineral serum level, the insulin sensitivity and the adipocytokines levels.

CONCLUSION

In obese children, the intake of omega-3 fatty acids associated with antioxidant vitamins, for three months improved calcemia and magnesemia and increased insulin sensitivity.