Pulse Brain · Growing Health Evidence Index
Tier 4 — Narrative / commentaryPeer-reviewed

Buckley JD, Howe PRC. 2009. Anti-obesity effects of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Obesity Reviews 10(6):648-659

2009

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Summary

This review, published in Obesity Reviews in 2009, synthesises available evidence on the potential of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids — principally EPA and DHA derived from marine sources — to counter obesity and excess adiposity. The authors likely draw on clinical and experimental studies to explore mechanisms including enhanced fat oxidation, modulation of appetite hormones, and improved insulin sensitivity. The paper contributes to understanding how dietary fatty acid composition may influence body weight regulation beyond simple caloric considerations.

UK applicability

The findings are broadly applicable to UK public health and dietary guidance contexts, particularly given UK interest in omega-3 intake levels in the population and their relevance to obesity prevention strategies. UK dietary surveys consistently indicate suboptimal LC omega-3 intake, making this evidence pertinent to NHS and public health nutritional recommendations.

Key measures

Body weight; body fat percentage; adiposity indices; fat oxidation; lipid metabolism markers; energy intake

Outcomes reported

The review examined evidence for the capacity of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFAs), particularly EPA and DHA, to reduce body fat and support weight management. It likely assessed effects on fat oxidation, appetite regulation, adiposity markers, and interactions with exercise or dietary interventions.

Theme
Nutrition & health
Subject
Dietary fats & metabolic health
Study type
Narrative Review
Study design
Narrative review
Source type
Peer-reviewed study
Status
Published
Geography
International
System type
Human clinical
Catalogue ID
XL0193

Topic tags

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