Taking omega-3 has helped slow down biological aging.

Omega-3 fatty acids are integral components of cell membranes and blood vessels, yet they are not synthesized in adequate amounts within the human body. Physicians and nutritionists classify them as essential elements of a well-balanced diet. Numerous scientific studies have repeatedly highlighted the significant role of these substances, found in fish and seafood, in maintaining health.

Observational and small clinical studies have previously indicated that omega-3, vitamin D, and physical exercise may slow down the aging process. However, there is a lack of large-scale trials that examine the effects of these interventions individually or in combination. To clarify this issue, an international team of researchers from Switzerland, the USA, Australia, and France took on the challenge. An article detailing their study was published in the journal Nature Aging.

Using several algorithms to calculate the rate of biological aging, the specialists monitored how the aging rates changed among 777 Swiss residents over the age of 70, who were observed for three years as part of the clinical trial DO-HEALTH. Almost 60% of the sample consisted of women. More than half of the participants did not suffer from serious chronic illnesses and had no cognitive or mental health impairments. The vast majority were physically active.

In the DO-HEALTH project, researchers aimed to determine whether taking vitamin D, omega-3, and engaging in simple physical exercises three times a week could extend the healthy lifespan of older adults. The study tested eight different combinations of interventions—both individually and in various combinations of all three. Participants in the control group received a placebo. Blood samples, including for DNA testing, were collected at the beginning of the trials and annually thereafter.

The researchers found that omega-3 supplementation could slow biological aging for up to four months, as calculated using one of four models of epigenetic clocks (PhenoAge, GrimAge, GrimAge2, and DunedinPACE).

The results were independent of the participants' gender, age, or body mass index. Notably, the most significant effect was observed from the combination of omega-3, vitamin D, and physical exercise. Additionally, this combination was most effective in reducing the risk of cancer and preventing age-related frailty over the three years of observation. According to the authors of the new study, each component enhanced the effect of the others, resulting in improved overall outcomes.

Among the limitations of the study, the researchers noted the absence of a unified standard for assessing biological aging and the relatively short duration of the trials. Furthermore, the Swiss specificity of the sample does not allow for generalization of the findings to the elderly population worldwide.