How Omega-3s Support Healthy Aging & Longevity — Every Step Of The Way*

Omega-3s are fatty acids that are essential to our health and are found in both plants (ALA) and marine sources (EPA and DHA). The associations between omega-3 fatty acids and heart health have long been established, but what does getting enough omega-3s have to do with living a long life? Well, research has identified omega-3s as important nutrients for promoting longevity.*

What does that mean, exactly? Telomeres are the chromosomal tips that protect our DNA from stressors. Evidence indicates that telomere length is a marker for biological aging, and the longer your telomeres, the greater your longevity. 

In 2021, a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition2 (and co-authored by Harris) put omega-3 status and longevity to the test. The goal of the study was to analyze the lifestyle habits and omega-3 levels of people with heart-health concerns over 11 years to determine the impact they have on life expectancy. While there were a number of lifestyle factors at play throughout the study that also affect longevity, the results indicated there is, in fact, a clear correlation between higher omega-3 levels and living long lives.* 

Research on this topic is ongoing, and the exact mechanics behind how omega-3s are affecting longevity are still up for debate. That said, there are a number of well-researched omega-3 benefits that have been proven to support us now and later in life—including heart, brain, eye, and joint health:* 

Specifically, EPA and DHA—whether consumed through fatty fish or a high-quality fish oil supplement—beneficially modulate these cardioprotective factors4₄ and more.* Indeed, marine omega-3s EPA and DHA have been linked to better heart-health outcomes, including hypertension and coronary heart disease5.†

DHA is primarily found in gray matter (the area that processes information) within the brain, and dietary DHA—whether consumed through food or supplementation—promotes mental acuity and cognitive function7 in older age.* In fact, regular weekly consumption of one serving of fish or more has been shown to increase gray matter in older adults8.* Oilier fish—such as salmon, anchovies, mackerel, and sardines—are high in EPA and DHA, which is a likely key player in this gray matter benefit.*

As you can imagine, this omega-3 is important to both the growth and development of the eyes early in life, and then later in life too, when maintenance of vision is a vital indicator of longevity.* In fact, those who consume diets rich in omega-3s are 25 to 35% less likely to experience age-related vision concerns.* 

As we age, our joints can become stiffer and less comfortable than they were in our younger years. Luckily, omega-3s—specifically marine omega-3s—support antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways10 to improve joint health, comfort, function, and mobility.* A 2017 meta-analysis found that, on average, the use of marine oil supplements (such as fish oil) with EPA + DHA has a favorable effect in supporting joint comfort11.* 

As many of the studies discussed above suggest, taking a high-quality omega-3 supplement daily is an easy and effective way to maintain optimal omega-3 levels.* Consider adding a fish oil supplement, such as mindbodygreen's omega-3 potency+, to your daily routine for a high-potency, sustainable, and traceable source of marine omega-3s—guaranteed. And for more picks, check out our omega-3 supplement roundup.