New Research: The Relationship Between Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Lifespan

If you’re fishing for ways to live longer, you may want to start taking omega-3 fish oil supplements.  Although numerous studies have proven the positive benefits of omega-3 fatty acids on the heart, brain, eyes and joints, few studies have examined their possible effects on lifespan, until now.   A new research paper examining the relationship between the omega-3 Index and the risk for death from any and all causes shows that those people with higher omega-3 EPA and DHA blood levels (i.e. Omega-3 Index) lived longer than those with lower levels.  In other words, those people who died with relatively low omega-3 levels died prematurely.  In Japan, omega-3 intakes and blood levels are higher than in most other countries.  Compared to middle-aged white men in the United States, Japanese men living in Japan have twice the blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids.  And they also happen to live longer than most. Coincidence?  Possibly, or maybe a high Omega-3 Index is part of the explanation.  Whatever the case, long live fish oil!

 

References:

(1) Japanese Diet Rich In Fish May Hold Secret To Healthy Heart: Omega-3 Fatty Acids From Fish Appear To Prevent Clogged Arteries. (2008, July 29). Retrieved from https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/07/080728192645.htm

(2) Harris, W. S. (2021). Blood n-3 fatty acid levels and total and cause-specific mortality from 17 prospective studies. Nature Communications, 12, 2329th ser. doi:04/22/21