Impact of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Alcohol Use and Negative Consequences: A Systematic Review.

Abstract

Context: Research suggests that alcohol consumption is associated with neuroinflammation, impacting brain regions associated with addiction and cognitive function. Long-chain omega-3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), in particular docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have been proposed to have neuroprotective effects against alcohol, reversing synaptic deficits caused by alcohol and alleviating anxiety in animal models.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of an n-3 intervention in ameliorating behavioral changes, biochemical alterations, and the inflammatory responses induced by alcohol consumption.

Data sources: A systematic review was performed using PubMed (Medline), Scopus, Web of Science, and OpenGrey databases. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed.

Data extraction: A total of 3829 records were identified. The records were subject to screening against the eligibility criteria, and the data extraction and risk-of-bias assessment were carried out by 2 investigators independently.

Data analysis: Twelve articles addressed n-3 PUFA interventions, and its effects on alcohol-related outcomes were finally included. Preclinical studies demonstrated that n-3 PUFAs improved behavioral, inflammation, lipid metabolism, and hepatic parameters altered by alcohol. However, clinical trials yielded inconclusive evidence.

Conclusion: Despite the paucity of clinical and preclinical studies, available evidence suggests that n-3 PUFAs may exert a protective influence on alcohol-related outcomes at both the behavioral and molecular levels.

Systematic review registration: PROSPERO registration no. CRD42023443095.