Research

Micronutrients & recovery

Higher serial circulating levels of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (specifically eicosapentaenoic acid and docosapentaenoic acid) are associated with a lower risk of unhealthy ageing in older adults.

To support healthy ageing, older adults should aim for higher levels of long-chain omega-3s, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA). This is best achieved through dietary consumption of seafood rather than relying solely on plant-based sources (ALA) or DHA supplements, as the study found no significant benefit from ALA or DHA alone in the primary analysis.

GoodSupportsHIGH confidence
Higher levels of long chain n3-PUFAs were associated with an 18% lower risk (95% confidence interval 7% to 28%) of unhealthy ageing per interquintile range after multivariable adjustments with time-varying exposure and covariates.
Heidi Lai et al. · BMJ · 2018

Why this rating

Prospective cohort study with serial biomarker measurements and multivariable adjustments, but not a randomized controlled trial.

Source

Serial circulating omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and healthy ageing among older adults in the Cardiovascular Health Study: prospective cohort study

Heidi Lai et al. · BMJ · 2018

cohort · n=2622Cited 80×
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