Since the beginning of our existence, humans have been searching for the key to longevity. This idea to live longer, or even live forever, has been the focal point of countless books, movies, television shows, songs, and more. While we may not have figured out how to live forever, we discover more about living longer and with more vitality every single day. The latest research, out of Switzerland, shows that one of the key ingredients to living longer is omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3s: The Key to Live Longer
Recently, researchers from Switzerland published the results of their groundbreaking study on the impact of vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and at-home exercises on healthy aging among European seniors. The study, called DO-HEALTH, is a multinational clinical trial conducted on 2157 people 70 years old and older. Their goal was to explore both the individual and combined benefits of these 3 separate interventions on health parameters associated with living longer and with more vitality.
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Study Design and Objectives
The idea behind the study was to examine the individual effects of each of the three interventions, as well as their combined effect. The study adopted a 2x2x2 randomized-control factorial design to test the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of three key interventions – vitamin D supplementation, omega-3 fatty acids intake, and a home exercise program. The interventions were measured on six primary endpoints, including blood pressure, fractures, physical performance, cognitive function, and infection risk. They were then chosen based on previous promising findings from mechanistic studies and clinical trials that suggested their potential in preventing age-related chronic diseases.
Significance of the Study
In Europe, as is in many places in the world, the population is aging. Along with this aging population is an increase, naturally, in age-related chronic diseases. The DO-HEALTH trial aims to address this prominent need for effective and accessible interventions to promote healthy aging. The goal is to find which strategies can most effectively enhance quality of life for older adults and also help them live longer. As already mentioned, the study focused on vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and exercise on key health indicators. This focus is likely due to the spotlight that has been put on these three interventions for longevity in recent years.
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Study Findings and Implications
Though vitamin D and exercise are important for health and longevity, it was omega-3 fatty acids which arose as the number one intervention to help humans live longer. Preliminary results from the DO-HEALTH trial underscore the potential of omega-3 fatty acids in promoting longevity and healthy aging. The study’s design and the comprehensive approach to evaluating multiple interventions and health outcomes contribute significantly to our understanding of how personalized health strategies can positively influence aging trajectories.
Getting More Omega-3s
Thankfully, getting more omega-3s in your diet is not difficult nor expensive. Fish, particularly cold water fatty fish like salmon, are one of the best sources of dietary omega-3s. Other fish options include herring, sardines, tuna, and mackerel. Non-fish options include flaxeed and flaxeed oil, walnuts and walnut oil, chia seeds, soybean oil, and canola oil. There are also many foods that are often fortified with omega-3s. These can include certain brands of eggs, yogurts, juices, milk, soymilk, and baby formulas. If you find yourself struggling to consume enough foods with omega-3s in them, you can also look for supplements. They come in many different forms, from gummies to pills to liquids, and also from various sources. Most often they are either fish-based or flaxseed based, so you can choose depending on your needs and personal preferences.
The Bottom Line
The findings from the DO-HEALTH trial shed light on the promising role of omega-3 fatty acids in enhancing longevity and healthy aging. As researchers continue to study the impact of nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle interventions on aging, the study sets a solid foundation for future research. As more information comes to light, the hope is that the current senior citizens can continue to age with grace and dignity, and that younger generations will also benefit and be able to live longer and better.
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