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Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Subconcussive Head Impacts

Mechanistic Investigation of Omega-3 Fatty Acids Pretreatment Effects on Subconcussive Brain Injury

Who can join

Ages 18 to 30 · All sexes · Healthy volunteers welcome

Inclusion Criteria:

* Between age 18-30
* Current or former soccer player
* At least 5 years of soccer heading experience
* Have internet access
* Willing to commit to avoid any sport activity that purposefully uses one's head to maneuver during the study period (American football, ice-hockey, rugby, wrestling, and soccer heading).

Exclusion Criteria:

* Any head or neck injury within 6 months before the study
* Implanted metal/magnetic devices (e.g., orthodontic braces
* Diagnosed autonomic or cardiovascular diseases (e.g., hypertension)
* Consuming oily fish (2 servings or more/month: salmon, bluefin, swordfish, anchovies)
* Allergy to fish or shellfish
* Consuming omega-3 FA supplements including plant-based (e.g., flaxseed) in the past 3 months.
* Pregnancy

About the study

The purpose of the proposed double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial is to understand how supplementation with fish oil \[docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)\] promote brain health against soccer heading. The study involves taking DHA+EPA or placebo, questionnaires, blood draws, brain imaging, tests to evaluate heart function, and soccer headings.

What is being tested

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA plus DHA) (dietary supplement)
• Organic soybean oil (dietary supplement)
• Soccer Heading Model (other)

Sponsor: Indiana University · Participants: 208 · Started: Feb 28, 2025

Contact the study team

• Kei Kawata · Phone: 812-855-5244

Official record on ClinicalTrials.gov — NCT06736925

Locations in the U.S.

From ClinicalTrials.gov, data retrieved Sep 30, 2026. Each study sets its own eligibility; the study team decides who can join.