Abstract
The knowledge, beliefs, and practices of registered dietitians (RD) related to omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms were examined using a cross-sectional survey design. Illinois-based dietetic association members (n = 165, 35% response) completed an online questionnaire. Most (99%) RDs believed n-3 fatty acids were important for health, 81% knew the American Heart Association's recommendation for fish consumption, and 90% encouraged patients with heart disease to consume n-3 fatty acids. Registered dietitians were less familiar with research linking n-3 fatty acid intake and PMS symptoms severity (31%). Many RDs (82%) consumed high n-3 fatty acids foods during the previous week and 30% RDs were taking n-3 fatty acids supplements. Walnuts (47%) and salmon (44%) were the most commonly consumed high n-3 fatty acid foods, and flaxseed oil (18.9 g/wk) and flaxseeds (7 g/wk) were the highest sources of n-3 fatty acids consumed. Registered dietitians not reporting PMS symptoms had significantly (P < .05) higher n-3 fatty acid consumption (7.2 g/wk) than those reporting PMS symptoms (4.3 g/wk).