Author(s): Faezeh Fazelnia1, Niloofar Khodabandehloo1
Osteoporosis and osteopenia are common worldwide problems leading to potentially
life-threatening consequences. Omega-3 supplementation for treating osteoporosis is less
studied and less valued by physicians. We aimed to ascertain the appropriate dosage of ome
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ga-3 supplementation to prevent osteoporosis. Google scholar database was searched in May
2017 using the key words: n-3 fatty acids, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, essential
fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid, al
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pha linolenic acid, linoleic acid, osteopenia, osteoporosis, bone density, and fracture. We
reviewed English language reports of randomized controlled trials with intake of omega-3
polyunsaturated fatty acids, in which subjects were over 60 years and supplemented with a
quantified dosage of omega-3; and outcome was indicated by bone mineral densitometry
medical record of fractures and radiological imaging, and serum biomarker to evaluate bone
metabolism. We reviewed 110 papers, which only eight articles met our conclusion criteria
and concluded with curative effects. Three articles came up with no prophylactic or curative
effect of omega-3 supplementation, three articles suggested a dosage of omega-3 supple
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ment that non-significantly increased bone mineral densitometry or decreased absorption,
and thus, had prophylactic effects. One article just concluded the positive effects, not defin
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ing the exact results. It is suggested that a dosage of 4.5 to 6 g/d of eicosapentaenoic acid and
docosahexaenoic acid can have curative effects, while 900-1000 mg/d can have prophylactic
outcomes. N-3 fatty acids have positive effects on bone density, but to confine definitive
dosage and formulation of omega-3 supplementation for reducing the risk of osteoporosis,
further investigations are required.