Omega-3s: The New Fountain of Youth?

CAMBRIDGE, Mass.A new study published in the Annals in Internal Medicine associated higher omega-3 fatty acid levels with a longer lifespan.  Researchers from Harvard Medical School analyzed research from a prospective cohort study involving nearly 3,000 participants (Ann Intern Med. 2013 Apr 2;158(7):515-25). In 1992, phospholipid fatty acid levels and cardiovascular risk factors were measured; scientists then assessed relationships with mortality, coronary heart disease incidence and stroke through 2008.

The results proved beneficial for those with highest long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) levels; on average, they lived more than 2 years longer. In general, higher plasma levels of PUFA biomarkers indicated lower total mortality, and the lower risk was mostly attributed to fewer cardiovascular deaths.

The Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3 (GOED) pointed out this study adds to the wealth of research supporting omega-3s.

"Considering that low omega-3 intake accounts for up to almost 100,000 deaths per year and that daily consumption of 250-400 mg EPA+DHA may add over 2 years to your life, cheating death is a cheap proposition," said Harry B. Rice, Ph.D., VP, Regulatory & Scientific Affairs, GOED.

"While this particular research focused on mortality, a wealth of research has been conducted over the last several decades associating various health benefits with O-3 intake. So, not only are we talking about quantity (i.e. years), but also quality of life," he added.