As air pollution becomes an increasingly common problem understainding the effects of exposure to particulate matter (PM) in the air is becoming an important area of research. Evidence has shown that environmental exposure to PM is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality and reduced heart rate variability (an indicator of cardiac regulation) in the elderly. The negative effects of PM are thought to be associated with increased inflammation and oxidative stress. New research suggests that supplementation with Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids helps to alleviate the negative effects associated with PM exposure.
The study involved 52 residents of a nursing home in Mexico City who were chronically exposed to particulate matter. The study lasted 4 months, with individuals receiving supplements of fish oil (containing omega-3 fatty acids). Blood tests were performed a t the beginning and the end of the study to assess levels of certain key markers of oxidative stress. These markers included copper/zinc superoxidase dismutase (SOD) activity, lipoperoxidation product (LPO) levels, and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels. Exposure to PM was also monitored.
SOD is a key enzyme involved in the body’s response to oxidative stress, and helps to eliminate radical oxygen species. GSH levels are also highly important and GSH is a powerful scavenger of free radicals. Depeleted GSH levels are a major indicator of oxidative stress. Finally the formation of LPO’s is another indicator of oxidative stress in the cells.
The results of the study indicated that exposure to PM resulted in decreased SOD and GSH levels. However, supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids seemd to modulate these effects, with individuals taking fish oil showing increased SOD and GSH levels. Omega-3 supplementation was also linked to lower LPO levels. These results are very interesting and suggest that Omega-3 fatty acids could benefit those exposed to high levels of PM by enhancing the body’s response to oxidative stress and potentially lowering the risk of associated heart problems.
Romieu et al. The effect of supplementation with Omega-3 polyunstaurated fatty acids on markers of oxidative stress in elderly exposed to PM. Environmental Health Perspectives. 2008; 116(9): 1237-1242.
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