A study has uncovered that a common nutrient may slow biological ageing, when combined with vitamin D and exercise. Highlighting the research, globally-renowned medical expert Dr Mark Hyman took to Instagram to share an update with his millions of followers.
The doctor said: “New research reveals daily omega-3 supplementation can slow biological ageing by up to four months over three years when combined with vitamin D and regular exercise.” The DO-HEALTH trial looked at more than 700 healthy people aged 70 and over, and those who took one gram of the essential fatty acids were found to have aged three to four months less than others on the trial, over a three year period.
Participants who took the omega-3 also took 2,000 IU of vitamin D each day, and performed 30 minutes of exercise three times a week. Heike A. Bischoff-Ferrari, professor of geriatric medicine and healthy longevity at the University of Zurich and the study’s first author, said: “Our findings provide a strong signal that omega-3 slows biological aging in humans, and that the combination vitamin D and exercise may make this effect event stronger.
“While the effects documented (3-4 months rejuvenation of biological age) appear small, if sustained, may have relevant effects on population health.” Omega-3 is found in a number of foods, including oily fish, walnuts, and flax seeds.
Many people also consume it as a supplement, with a 180 capsule bottle available from Boots for £15.99 – or less than 9p a pill.