Future research should attempt to improve the patients’ ability
to digest, absorb, and incorporate n-3 fatty acids into tissues.
Patients having clear evidence of metabolic cachexia, particularly
loss of lean body mass, may be better candidates for these
studies than those who do not. Adequate energy and protein
supplementation should be maintained during such studies, as
EPA alone does not seem to significantly affect appetite and
caloric intake. For example, in our study, ad libitum food intake
did not increase significantly after 2 weeks of fish oil administration.
Both dietary counseling and the use of food supplements
and appetite stimulants should be considered in future research.