Changes of HDL subfractions by eicosapentaenoic acid intake and physical load in 20- to 25-year-old men

The effects of daily eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) intake and physical activity on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) subfraction, which may be an index of health status, were examined. The HDL subfraction, triglyceride and T-chol levels in the serum of 10 male volunteers aged 20-25 were examined before, immediately after and 1 h after being subjected to a physical load by bicycle ergometer at 90 W for 20 min. Subjects were then given 1.25 g EPA/day for 2 weeks, and the above test was repeated. By EPA intake, the distribution of HDL3b and 3c decreased significantly by 16.8 and 15.3%, respectively, and that of 2b increased significantly by 17.9%. The rate of change of subfraction of the 29th part (2b) of 30 parts in the total range of HDL increased by 67%, and decreased by 47% in 7th part (3c). By physical load, the distribution of HDL2a increased significantly by 15.4%, while 3b tended to decrease. By physical load after EPA intake, the distribution of 2a decreased significantly by 9.7%, and those of 3b and 3c increased significantly by 20.5 and 5.4%, respectively, and that of the 7th part (3c) increased by 37%. Thus, the physical load after EPA intake is effective to prevent arteriosclerosis as increasing the rate of change of HDL3c and as showing the longevity pattern of the HDL subfraction. Concentration of TG in a modal HDL pattern group increased by 95% after EPA intake, but that of a bimodal group did not show any change. HDL-cholesterol level in the bimodal group was higher than that in the modal group, especially after EPA intake. Two type III subjects changed to type IV by the load and the EPA intake, respectively. Thus, it seemed that the transformation from a modal pattern to a bimodal pattern by a certain lifestyle, especially regular physical activity and proper food intake, is a very important trial for the prevention of cerebrovascular diseases.