Omega-3 PUFAs counteracts high fructose diet-induced gonadal impairment via fortified antioxidant defense

Introduction: The consumption of fructose sweeteners as an alternative to high-calorie diets has been linked to various metabolic diseases due to increased oxidative stress. This study investigated changes in testicular and ovarian functions following Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation (ω-3 PUFAs) in rats fed a High Fructose Diet (HFD). Methods: Forty Wistar rats were equally and randomly distributed into four groups. Each group was further subdivided by gender, with an equal number of animals in each sub-group. Group A assigned as control, while Groups B and C were administered HFD containing 10% and 20% v/v fructose solution, respectively. Group D rats were provided 20% v/v HFD and ω-3 PUFAs.  Results: After six weeks of consumption, HFD resulted in reduced semen quality and gonadal reproductive hormone levels, while increasing testicular and ovarian oxidative stress. ω-3 PUFAs improved semen quality, reproductive hormone concentrations, and antioxidant defense system. Conclusion: HFD impairs gonadal function, however, dietary supplementation with ω-3 PUFAs improves gonadal functions by enhancing the antioxidant defense mechanism.