A recent study revealed that individuals who consumed fish oil supplements, known as omega-3, exhibited indications of decelerated biological aging. Furthermore, researchers observed that when fish oil was paired with vitamin D supplements and exercise, it significantly enhanced the effects on aging.
Kenneth Koncilja, MD, a geriatrician at Cleveland Clinic, explained, “Biological aging encompasses the natural adjustments our bodies undergo due to the passage of time.” He emphasized the distinction between biological age, representing overall health and wellness, and chronological age, which denotes the number of years lived.
It is noteworthy that individuals of the same chronological age may exhibit varying biological ages. As biological age progresses, bodily functions may diminish in efficiency and effectiveness due to alterations in cellular biology resulting from external influences, genetic variations, organelle dysfunction, and environmental changes.
The study, reported in the journal Nature Aging, monitored 777 individuals aged over 70 and gauged their biological age using epigenetic clocks, which evaluate cellular aging. Participants were divided into groups and assigned different interventions, including daily vitamin D supplementation (2,000 ICU), daily omega-3 supplementation (one gram), and strength training thrice weekly.
After three years, blood analyses indicated that individuals solely taking omega-3 supplements experienced an approximate increase in biological age of two years and eight months, suggesting a potential deceleration in aging. One of the epigenetic clocks utilized in the study indicated that the combination of strength training and vitamin D supplements, alongside omega-3 fatty acids, further reduced biological aging. These practices were also linked to decreased susceptibility to infections, falls, premature frailty, and cancer.
Omega-3 supplements may impede biological aging by mitigating inflammation, according to Marie van der Merwe, PhD, from the University of Memphis. Inflammation has been associated with accelerated aging, and reducing it can enhance cellular health.
While the study underscores the potential benefits of omega-3 and vitamin D supplements combined with exercise in slowing biological aging, further research is warranted, as per the study authors. It is advised not to increase supplement dosages based solely on this study. Consultation with a primary care physician is recommended before commencing any new supplement regimen.
Koncilja emphasized the positive impact of regular exercise on individuals of all ages, stating, “I do think this also supports the benefits of aggressive, progressive daily exercise for all age groups.”
In conclusion, the study suggests that incorporating omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D supplements, along with regular exercise, may contribute to decelerating the process of biological aging at the cellular level. Nonetheless, experts advocate for additional research before universally recommending these supplements.
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