Omega-3 fatty acids are not only healthy, but also have a rejuvenating effect that can slow aging. You can find these polyunsaturated fatty acids plenty of fish, nuts, seeds and their oils. They are indispensable for your body, as they build cell membranes, control blood lipids and regulate blood clotting. They also play an important role for brain development and vascular health. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effect.
Study results: Omega-3 and rejuvenation effect
Animal experiments and pilot studies have shown that vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids can brake aging. In order to find out whether these findings can also be transferred to humans, a team led by Heike Bischoff-Ferrari from the University of Zurich carried out a clinical study with 777 healthy over-70-year-olds from Switzerland. These took a placebo, a vitamin D preparation, an omega-3 fatty acid preparation or a 30-minute movement program three times a week. Some groups combined two or three of these measures.
Epigenetic watches and DNA changes
In the course of the study, the researchers removed blood samples and examined them for epigenetic methylation patterns of the DNA. These small chemical attachments regulate which genes are active and thus influence our health and our biological age. The results were impressive: subjects who took omega-3 fatty acids showed a slowdown by the epigenetic “watches” compared to the placebo group. After three years, these participants were epigenetically from three to four months younger.
Combination of omega-3, vitamin D and movement
Interestingly, vitamin D or movement alone showed no change in the epigenetic watches. But in combination with omega-3, they strengthened the rejuvenation effect. One of the examined epigenetic watches ran even more slowly by combining these measures than when taking Omega-3.
Reading tip
Nutrition through dietary supplements
However, experts warn against taking omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins as high-dose dietary supplements without checking the individual needs. A too high dose of omega-3 can promote cardiac arrhythmia, and vitamins can also harm too high. The best strategy is still a balanced diet that contains omega-3 and vitamin D, and regular movement.
Further examinations are necessary
The mechanisms, over which Omega-3 and Co. slow down the epigenetic watches, are not yet fully understood and should be further researched. It must also be examined whether the knowledge can be transferred to people from other countries.
Reading tip
