The word ‘fat’ typically yields negative feelings in humans due to various reasons. However, not all fats are created equal, and human bodies need certain fats in order to be healthy. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, often referred to as omega-3 fats, are ‘essential fats’ that the body cannot make on its own. Humans have to get them by eating particular foods such as certain fish and seafood, vegetable oils, nuts, and leafy vegetables.
Another route that is popular for ingesting omega-3 fatty acids is via a pill or gel cap. Supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids can be found at most grocery and drug stores. Researchers affiliated with various health and academic institutions in Switzerland, the United States, Australia, France, and the United Kingdom recently collaborated on a clinical trial that focused on daily omega-3 intake and its potential effect on aging. The results of their research were published today in the academic journal Nature Aging.
“While observational studies and small pilot trials suggest that vitamin D, omega-3 and exercise may slow biological aging, larger clinical trials testing these treatments individually or in combination are lacking.” the researchers stated.
“Here, we report the results of a post hoc analysis among 777 participants of the DO-HEALTH trial on the effect of vitamin D (2,000 IU per day) and/or omega-3 (1 g per day) and/or a home exercise program on four next-generation DNA methylation (DNAm) measures of biological aging (PhenoAge, GrimAge, GrimAge2 and DunedinPACE) over 3 years.” the researchers stated about their trial’s methodology.
“Omega-3 alone slowed the DNAm clocks PhenoAge, GrimAge2 and DunedinPACE, and all three treatments had additive benefits on PhenoAge. Overall, from baseline to year 3, standardized effects ranged from 0.16 to 0.32 units (2.9–3.8 months).” the researchers stated about the results of the 3-year trial.
“In summary, our trial indicates a small protective effect of omega-3 treatment on slowing biological aging over 3 years across several clocks, with an additive protective effect of omega-3, vitamin D and exercise based on PhenoAge.” they concluded.
Given the results of this trial, you may want to consider adding a 1-gram-per-day omega-3 supplement to your overall wellness regimen. As with all studies and trials, this one trial is not the final answer on the subject, and presumably, there will be more research conducted. Taking any supplement, including one containing omega-3, is something that you should discuss with your doctor before starting.
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