The effect of long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on neuromuscular function in humans: a systematic review

This systematic review aims to evaluate the effects of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (LCn-3 PUFA) supplementation on neuromuscular function in humans across the lifespan. Neuromuscular function underpins key aspects of physical performance, including force production, movement control, and resistance to fatigue, and is therefore relevant to both athletic populations and healthy ageing. While LCn-3 PUFA supplementation has been associated with improvements in muscle strength and physical function, these effects are not consistently accompanied by increases in muscle mass, suggesting that adaptations may be mediated, at least in part, through neuromuscular mechanisms. However, the extent, consistency, and mechanistic basis of these effects have not been comprehensively synthesised. This review seeks to synthesise and critically evaluate the available evidence on LCn-3 PUFA supplementation and neuromuscular function in humans. Specifically, the review aims to: (1) map the neuromuscular outcomes assessed in LCn-3 PUFA studies and examine potential neural and muscular pathways underpinning observed effects; (2) characterise supplementation protocols, including dose, duration, composition, and source, and consider how these relate to reported outcomes; and (3) identify factors that may influence the efficacy of supplementation, including contextual factors (e.g., supplementation alone vs. combined with exercise; rest vs. post-fatigue) and individual characteristics (e.g., age, sex, training status, and health status).