The effect of omega-3 supplementation on androgen profile and menstrual status in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized clinical trial

This study was conducted to determine the effect of omega-3 supplementation on sex hormone-binding protein (SHBG), testosterone, free androgen index (FAI) and menstrual status in women with PCOS. This double-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted on 78 overweight/obese women with PCOS. Participants were randomized to receive omega-3 (3gr/day) or placebo for 8 weeks. Data about weight, height and nutrient intake as well as blood samples were collected before and after intervention. Serum concentrations of testosterone (nmol/L) and SHBG (nmol/L) were measured. FAI was also calculated as the ratio of testosterone to SHBG. Seventy eight patients (age: 26.92±5.46 yrs, Body Mass Index: 31.69±4.84 Kg/m2) completed the study. There was no significant difference in mean age, weight, height, Body Mass Index and intake of energy, and macronutrients between 2 study groups before and after treatment. All the participants had irregular periods. After the trial the percentage of regular menstruation in the omega-3 group was more than the placebo group (47.2% vs. 22.9%, p=0.049). Furthermore, testosterone concentration was significantly lower in the omega-3 group compared with placebo, after supplementation (p=0.04). SHBG and FAI did not change in either group. Omega-3 supplementation could reduce serum concentrations of testosterone and regulate menstrual cycle without significant effect on SHBG and FAI. Future studies with longer period of supplementation are warranted. There is some evidence regarding the effect of poly unsaturated fatty acid intake on androgen levels and gonadal function in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).