An investigation of the association between omega 3 FA and bone mineral density among older adults: results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey years 2005-2008.

Summary: The relation of omega 3 fatty acids (n-3 FA) with bone mineral density (BMD) was assessed among adults >60 years; NHANES data (2005-2008). The association of dietary n-3 FA with measures of hip BMD was equivocal, but n-3 FA supplement use was significantly associated with higher spine BMD-a finding that deserves further study. Introduction: Associations between polyunsaturated fatty acids and bone mineral density are not well understood. Purpose: To evaluate the cross-sectional relation between dietary omega 3 fatty acid intake (specifically docosahexaenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and octadecatetraenoic) and BMD at the hip and spine among older adults. Methods: Omega 3 FA intake (g/day) was assessed from two 24-h recalls using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, in 2005-2008); and omega 3 FA supplement use (yes/no) via questionnaire. Multivariable regression models were developed to explain variance in femoral neck, total femur, and lumbar spine BMD among 2,125 men and women over 60 years. Results: Mean age was 70 years. In adjusted models, dietary omega 3 FA were marginally associated with greater femoral neck BMD ( p = 0.0505), but not with total femur BMD ( p = 0.95) or lumbar spine BMD ( p = 0.74). Omega 3 supplement use was significantly positively associated with lumbar spine BMD ( p = 0.005) but not with femoral neck or total femur BMD. Conclusions: Dietary intakes of omega 3 FA were marginally associated with femoral neck BMD; however, omega 3 supplement use was significantly associated with higher lumbar spine BMD in older adults. These results emphasize the need for assessment of total omega 3 intakes (diet and supplements) to provide a greater range of intake and a more accurate picture of the relation between omega 3 FA and BMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]