Omega-3 Supplementation May Slow the Aging Process

Telomeres are the endcaps of chromosomes, the shortening of which has been associated with the aging process.   Jan Kiecolt-Glaser, from Ohio State University (Ohio, USA), and colleagues enrolled   overweight but healthy middle-aged and older adults in a study lasting four months.  Subjects were given either 2.5 grams or 1.25 grams of omega-3 fatty acids, both of which were standardized to contain a 7:1 ratio of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) to docosahexaenoic acid (DHA);  a placebo group served as controls.  In both omega-3 supplented groups, white blood cell (leukocyte) telomeres actually lengthened; oxidative stress was reduced by about 15% (as compared to placebo).   Observing that: “The data suggest that lower [omega-6:omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid] ratios can impact cell aging,” the study authors conclude that: “The triad of inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune cell aging represents important pre-disease mechanisms that may be ameliorated through nutritional interventions.”