Potential of Omega-3 Supplementation on Muscle Mass, Muscle Strength, and Physical Performance in Elderly Community

BACKGROUND: Geriatric problem characterized by reduced functional ability and impaired adaptation function caused by the decline in various body systems, as well as increased vulnerability to various kinds of stressors, which reduce a person’s functional performance. AIM: This study was aimed to explore the effect of omega-3 supplementation on muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance in the elderly community in Palembang, Indonesia. METHODS: This study is an open clinical trial, to assess the potential of omega-3 supplementation on muscle mass, handgrip strength, and physical activity of elderly community. Omega-3 is given as much as 1.2 g once a day for 12 weeks orally. Muscle strength was assessed using Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis. Meanwhile, the muscle strength was assessed with a muscle dynamometer. RESULTS: Omega-3 supplementation has only shown potent efficacy in improving muscle strength in geriatrics patients (before omega-3 supplementation 25.1 + 5.11; after omega-3 supplementation 26.2 + 5.16; p < 0.05). Omega 3 supplementation did not show significant improvement in muscle mass and gait ability in elderly patients. CONCLUSIONS: Omega-3 supplementation improves handgrip strength but does not increase muscle mass and physical performance for geriatrics