Omega-3 Supplements May Help Slow Down Ageing Process
Recent research indicates that daily omega-3 supplements may significantly slow biological ageing in older adults, particularly when combined with vitamin D and regular exercise.
Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in seeds, nuts, and specific fish, are known to promote heart health, enhance brain function, and boost the immune system. New findings suggest that these “good” fats also influence epigenetic markers—chemical modifications on DNA that affect gene activity and cellular behavior—pointing to a slower rate of biological ageing.
In a groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at the University of Zurich, 777 Swiss participants aged 70 to 91 were divided into eight groups to examine how omega-3 interacts with vitamin D supplements and exercise.
“Omega-3 affects multiple ageing pathways, including anti-inflammatory responses,” stated a lead researcher. “Combining omega-3 with vitamin D and exercise may provide cumulative benefits.”
Participants maintained their pre-existing habits, including existing supplement intake and exercise routines, to ensure ethical standards were met. Groups were assigned various combinations of a daily 1-gram dose of omega-3, placebo pills, and 2,000 international units of vitamin D, along with some instructed to engage in strength training three times a week.
Using epigenetic clock analyses at the study’s outset and after three years, researchers estimated the biological ages of participants by examining DNA methylation markers in their blood samples, which generally decline with age.
Results showed that those taking omega-3 supplements experienced an average biological ageing reduction of about three months compared to those on placebo. The researchers adjusted for variables including actual age, sex, weight, and height.
“This is the most significant trial to date suggesting that a simple supplement can help slow biological ageing,” the researcher noted.
Furthermore, participants who combined omega-3 with vitamin D and strength training showed an even greater reduction in ageing, averaging nearly four months of “rejuvenation” compared to those without these interventions.
Although these findings may appear modest, they carry substantial implications for older individuals, who may experience significant age-related decline within just a few months.
Despite the promising results, it’s essential to acknowledge that epigenetic clocks are not definitive indicators of biological ageing or health status. Ongoing research will revisit how these changes affect cognition, physical abilities, and cardiovascular health.
Future studies will also examine a broader demographic, including younger individuals and those in different health conditions and countries, to further validate these findings.
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