The effects of taking n-3 fatty acids is attracting attention but little research has been done on the effects to the athletes ' physique. The purpose of this survey was to examine the effects of a six-month food intake of Egoma oil containing n-3 fatty acids, and the changes on the blood composition of long-distance female athletes. Eighteen female athletes were divided into three groups: a non-consuming group, a 9g consuming group and a 18g consuming group. Both, body weight and blood, were measured and a diet survey was conducted. Both, the 9g and 18g group subjects, consumed Egoma oil daily with their meals. As a result, in the 18g consuming group,serum EPA increased 31.1% in two months and 33.8% in six months (p <0.05) compared to pre-intake. In addition, EPA/AA ratio increased 44.4% in four months (p <0.05). In the 9g consuming group, EPA increased 45.8% in four months (p <0.05) compared to pre-intake. On the other hand, no changes were observed in body weight,Triglyceride (TG) and LDL cholesterol levels. In addition, the results of this study suggest that taking doses of 9g or more of Egoma oil elevate the EPA and also the EPA/AA ratio.
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