LDL cholesterol-raising effect of low-dose docosahexaenoic acid in middle-aged men and women

Am J Clin Nutr. 2004 Apr;79(4):558-63. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/79.4.558.

Abstract

Background: Long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have variable effects on LDL cholesterol, and the effects of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are uncertain.

Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the effect on blood lipids of a daily intake of 0.7 g DHA as triacylglycerol in middle-aged men and women.

Design: Men and women aged 40-65 y (n = 38) underwent a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover trial of treatment with 0.7 g DHA/d for 3 mo.

Results: DHA supplementation increased the DHA concentration in plasma by 76% (P < 0.0001) and the proportion in erythrocyte lipids by 58% (P < 0.0001). Values for serum total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and plasma apolipoprotein B concentrations were 4.2% (0.22 mmol/L; P = 0.04), 7.1% (0.23 mmol/L; P = 0.004), and 3.4% (P = 0.03) higher, respectively, with DHA treatment than with placebo. In addition, the LDL cholesterol:apolipoprotein B ratio was 3.1% higher with DHA treatment than with placebo (P = 0.04), which suggested an increase in LDL size. Plasma lathosterol and plant sterol concentrations were unaffected by treatment.

Conclusion: A daily intake of approximately 0.7 g DHA increases LDL cholesterol by 7% in middle-aged men and women. It is suggested that DHA down-regulates the expression of the LDL receptor.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cholesterol, LDL / blood*
  • Cross-Over Studies
  • Docosahexaenoic Acids / administration & dosage
  • Docosahexaenoic Acids / blood
  • Docosahexaenoic Acids / pharmacology*
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lipids / blood*
  • Lipoproteins / blood*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Cholesterol, LDL
  • Lipids
  • Lipoproteins
  • Docosahexaenoic Acids