An omega-3 dose a day could slow ageing process, ‘healthspan’ trial finds
Guardian1 day
The Facts
A clinical trial conducted by the University of Zurich has found that taking one gram of omega-3 daily for three years reduced biological aging by approximately four months, as measured through epigenetic clocks that analyze DNA methylation patterns.
The research, published in Nature Aging on Monday, revealed that combining omega-3 supplements with vitamin D and a regular exercise program of 30 minutes three times a week produced more substantial anti-aging effects and additional health benefits, including a 61% reduction in cancer risk.
Additionally, omega-3 supplements alone reduced falls by 11% and infections by 13% among participants — 777 aged 70 and over — demonstrating benefits beyond its effects on biological aging markers.
The Spin
Narrative A
The findings represent a breakthrough in human rejuvenation research, offering an accessible and affordable intervention that could help extend the health span. Combining omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and exercise provides a practical approach to slowing biological aging, with additional benefits for preventing falls, infections, and cancer.
Narrative B
The results should be interpreted cautiously. The study focused on a relatively small, healthy sample of Swiss seniors, and the long-term sustainability of these effects remains unknown. Additionally, no standardized measure of biological aging makes it challenging to prove the intervention's impact on longevity.
