Thrombosis: the effects of Omega 3 supplements depend on the sex of the patient

The action exerted by Omega 3s on platelet aggregation, which is important in preventing thrombosis, depends on the sex of the individual taking them. This was shown by research from the University of Newcastle in Callaghan, Australia, published in the journal Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases. According to the study authors, their findings suggest that platelet aggregation may be influenced by the different ways in which men and women processeicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) anddocosahexaenoic acid (DHA), the 2 food-derived Omega-3s. In particular, male individuals would benefit more from taking EPA. In contrast, those of the female gender may prevent thrombosis by using DHA. The differences found would be based on theinteraction between Omega-3s and sex hormones. From a practical point of view, this implies the need for specific formulations of these nutrients for men and women.

Omega-3 and thrombosis

Scientific studies conducted in the past have unveiled the protective role of Omega-3s against thrombosis, an issue in whichplatelet aggregation plays an important role. No research had determined which among these fatty acids was the most effective in reducing the likelihood of such events. In fact, most of the data concern the administration of fish oil containing both EPA and DHA. However, recent research has suggested that different omega-3s have different actions in men and women. These clues, together with the growing demand for alternative antiplatelet agents to drugs, have prompted Australian researchers to investigate the effect of EPA and DHA on the 2 sexes.

EPA for men, DHA for women

The University of Newcastle study involved 15 men and 15 women who were given a single dose of fish oil rich in EPA or DHA. As a control, some participants took a placebo instead of the fish oil. Platelet aggregation was measured before the start of the experiment and about 2, 5 and 24 hours after administration. The data collected showed that both fatty acids are effective in reducing platelet aggregation. 

When the analysis took into account the gender of the participants, it was found that EPA was more effective in men than DHA. In women, however, a totally opposite situation was found. Specifically, in men, EPA reduced platelet aggregation by 11, 10.6, and 20.5 percent, 2, 5, and 24 hours after administration, respectively. DHA was not shown to be more effective than placebo. In the case of women, DHA was effective after 24 hours when it reduced platelet aggregation by 13.7 percent. EPA offered no advantage over placebo.

The reasons for the differences

According to the researchers, the observed differences are determined by theinteraction between Omega-3s and sex hormones. These results indicate the need to pay attention to the type of supplement given to patients depending on whether they are men or women.  

Source 

1. Phang M, Lincz L, Seldon M, Garg ML, "Acute supplementation with eicosapentaenoic acid reduces platelet microparticle activity in healthy subjects," J Nutr Biochem. 2011 Nov 30. [Epub ahead of print].