Is FADS1 useful for Sport?

Whether FADS1 is useful for sport cannot be conclusively answered with the available data. FADS1 encodes a desaturase involved in the conversion of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Variants in FADS1 can affect endogenous synthesis of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (e.g., EPA, DHA, arachidonic acid). This could theoretically influence inflammation, recovery, and cell membrane function in athletes. However, direct, robust human studies demonstrating a clear benefit for athletic performance or recovery are lacking. The evidence is currently mechanistic and based on indirect metabolic pathways. A DNA test for FADS1 may indicate whether an individual might benefit from increased omega-3 intake, but it is not a sport-specific marker. In practice, a balanced diet with adequate omega-3 (e.g., from fish or algae oil) is recommended for all athletes, regardless of genotype. Caveat: Direct performance enhancement from FADS1 knowledge is not supported. Evidence grade: mechanistic/unclear.