EFFECTS OF A NEW FLUID FISH OIL CONCENTRATE, ESKIMO-3, ON TRIGLYCERIDES, CHOLESTEROL, FIBRINOGEN AND BLOOD-PRESSURE

Abstract. Eskimos have a very low incidence of cardiovascular disease, at least in part due to a high intake of n‐3 fatty acids. ESKIMO‐3 is a new stabilized (insensitive to oxidation) fluid fish oil concentrate, 30 ml of which contains an amount of eicosapentaenoic acid and total n‐3 fatty acids equivalent to the daily intake among Eskimos. Thirty‐three volunteers, healthy or with coronary artery disease, were given ESKIMO‐3, at a dose of 15 or 30 ml d−1, corresponding to 2.7 or 5.4 g of eicosapentaenoic acid d−1, or placebo oil, for a period of up to 6 months. ESKIMO‐3 had a pronounced dose‐dependent effect on several risk factors for coronary artery disease. Intake of one tablespoon (15 ml) daily for 6 months significantly reduced levels of triglycerides (‐64%), total cholesterol (‐8%), plasma fibrinogen (‐23%) and diastolic blood pressure (‐9%). Bleeding time was unchanged. Intake of two tablespoons daily for 4 weeks increased plasma eicosapentaenoic acid levels by 490%, and decreased arachidonic acid by 20%. The HDL concentration increased by 21%. No change in the above mentioned variables was observed after intake of placebo oil. 1990 Blackwell Publishing Ltd