doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-025-00355-1
This article in Nature refers to a study that was published on February 3rd in Nature Aging. This large research study conducted across five European countries in a group of more than 700 people aged 70 and over, showed that omega-3 and vitamin D supplements over a three year period slowed biological aging by 3-4 month, especially when combined with exercise.
Participants were given either a placebo or a combination of omega-3, vitamin D, and exercise. Blood samples collected at the start and end of the study were analyzed using four DNA methylation clocks—biological markers that measure age-related changes at the molecular level. One of these clocks, PhenoAge, revealed that participants who took 1 gram of omega-3, 2,000 IU of vitamin D daily, and exercised for 30 minutes three times a week showed the most significant reduction in biological aging. Omega-3 alone demonstrated a slowing effect across three of the four clocks, highlighting its potential as a key factor in age-related health management.
While the study doesn’t prove a direct impact on lifespan, past findings suggest omega-3 reduces falls by 10%, infections by 13%, and cancer risk. Experts advise moderation, as excessive omega-3 may (above 1gr a day) increase atrial fibrillation risk. Though diet changes like calorie restriction also slow aging, supplements offer a more accessible approach for many.
Reference of the original article:
Bischoff-Ferrari, H.A., Gängler, S., Wieczorek, M. et al. Individual and additive effects of vitamin D, omega-3 and exercise on DNA methylation clocks of biological aging in older adults from the DO-HEALTH trial. Nat Aging (2025).
https://doi.org/10.1038/s43587-024-00793-y
