Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation to improve body composition and perceived stress in collegiate athletes.

Background: Previous studies suggest Fish Oil-Derived Omega-3 Fatty Acid (FO n-3) may improve body composition and mental health in adults. Objective: This study aimed to assess changes in body composition measures and perceived stress scores in college athletes following FO n-3 supplementation. Design: In this randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 17 Baylor University track and field athletes participated in an 8-week study. The experiment group (n=9) received 4.0 g of FO n-3 daily, while the placebo group (n=8) received 4.0 g of coconut oil. Baseline and post-study measures included Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA), Omega-3 Index, and Perceived Stress Score (PSS). Results: No statistically significant changes were observed in either group after 8 weeks. Conclusions: FO n-3 supplementation did not significantly impact body composition or perceived stress in collegiate athletes, but positive changes were observed in the experiment group that were not statistically significant.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S.

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Grantor

Baylor University.

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Ross, Julia C., 2001-

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Funderburk, LesLee K.

• Omega-3.
• Supplementation.
• Athletes.

Statement dc:rights

• Baylor University works are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. Contact libraryquestions@baylor.edu for inquiries about permission.

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/2104/13832

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:baylor-ir.tdl.org:2104/13832