A randomized, open-label, pilot clinical study to evaluate the effect of omega-3-enriched egg supplementation in healthy participants

BackgroundOmega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for health. Omega-3-enriched eggs provide an alternative to enhance dietary omega-3 intake.ObjectiveTo evaluate the change in EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and total omega-3 fatty acids levels in blood after consuming omega-3-enriched eggs in healthy participants and compare with regular eggs and fish oil capsules.MethodsA randomized, open-label, pilot clinical study allocated 43 participants into four groups as follows: Group 1 (<i>n</i> = 10): One omega-3-enriched egg daily, Group 2 (<i>n</i> = 10): Two omega-3-enriched eggs daily, Group 3 (<i>n</i> = 12): One fish oil capsule once daily containing 250 mg EPA + DHA, Group 4 (<i>n</i> = 11): One regular (control) egg daily for 30 days. The primary outcome was the change in EPA, DHA, and total omega-3 fatty acid levels in blood plasma on Day 15 and Day 30 compared to baseline.ResultsConsuming one omega-3-enriched egg daily for 30 days increased DHA levels by 63.66%. While fish oil capsules increased plasma DHA level by 91.48%. The highest increase in DHA was in the two omega-3 egg group (92.52%). EPA levels significantly increased (117.46%) in participants consuming two omega-3-enriched eggs daily, which was significantly higher than the fish oil capsule group (111.08%). Total plasma omega-3 levels increased by 97.41% in the two-enriched-egg group, compared to 13.37% in the regular egg group.ConclusionOmega-3-enriched eggs can be an ideal alternative for individuals who consume eggs but avoid fish/fish products.Clinical Trial RegistrationClinical Trial Registry, India (CTRI Registration number: CTRl/2020/02/023143).