Eivind Ertesvag 
Can a simple supplement really slow down the aging process in the body? A new, large-scale study published in the prestigious journal Nature Aging suggests a surprising answer: yes — and it only takes one gram a day.
Omega-3 Linked to Slower Aging
Researchers at the University of Zurich found that taking 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids daily for three years appeared to reduce the body’s biological aging by up to four months. The study is based on blood samples and epigenetic markers — often referred to as the body’s “biological clock.”
The effect was shown to be independent of gender, age, and BMI, and was measured using so-called epigenetic clocks that track how gene activity is influenced by lifestyle and environment.
“We saw that omega-3 supplementation had a positive effect on the rate of aging. And when combined with vitamin D and strength training, the effect was even stronger,” said Professor Heike Bischoff-Ferrari, who led the study. This according to Sosialnytt.
Three Simple Habits Had the Greatest Impact
The study, which included 2,157 participants aged 70 and older, tested combinations of:
- 1 gram of omega-3 daily
- 50 micrograms (2,000 IU) of vitamin D daily
- Strength training for 30 minutes, three times a week
The combination of all three measures not only appeared to slow aging but also reduced the risk of infections, cancer, and early physical decline.
Blood samples from 777 participants were analyzed to measure the impact on biological aging. The findings confirm earlier results from the DO-HEALTH project — one of Europe’s largest studies on aging.
Not Without Caveats
While the results are promising, researchers emphasize that there is still no officially approved method for measuring biological age. Additionally, the study primarily included older Europeans, making it difficult to say whether the findings apply globally.
Nonetheless, there’s little doubt that a healthy diet, targeted supplements, and regular physical activity remain some of the best tools we have to slow the aging process.
