Work

Cetoleic acid-rich fish oil increases plasma levels of EPA and DHA in healthy volunteers: a double-blinded, randomised, controlled trial

Year: 2026

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: Intake of fish and supplementation with n -3 PUFA are associated with reduced incidence of CVD. Cetoleic acid promotes n -3 PUFA generation in salmon and human HepG2 cells, but data in humans are scarce. To explore the effect of cetoleic acid on n -3 PUFA levels, we performed a double-blinded randomised controlled trial in healthy adults (thirty-seven females and twelve males) for 4 weeks. The participants were randomised to consume either capsules with mackerel oil, naturally rich in cetoleic acid, or a control oil, both with a similar concentration of n -3 PUFA. Supplements with mackerel oil resulted in higher plasma levels of the n -3 PUFA 20:4 n -3 (eicosatetraenoic acid) and 20:5 n -3 (EPA) as compared with those receiving control oil. In addition, those who received the cetoleic-rich capsules had higher levels of 20:4 n -3 in the erythrocytes membrane and a decrease in expression of elongation of very long-chain fatty acids protein 5 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. We found no differences in lipid, glucose or C-reactive protein between the two treatment groups, consisting of healthy subjects. Our data suggest that supplementation with cetoleic-rich mackerel oil may result in increased levels of certain n -3 PUFA. Further studies should include patients with or at risk for metabolic and CVD.

Source: British Journal Of Nutrition

DOI: 10.1017/s0007114526107958