Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Longevity

There has been a lot of back and forth lately on whether or not omega-3 fatty acids are good for you or not. A large study of residents of Washington State aged 50-76 at the start of the study (the Vitamins and Lifestyle study) in 2000-2002 were followed through 2006. Of the original 70,495 participants, 3,051 died during this time period. The researchers found that intake of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids through the diet (fatty fish) or supplements (fish oil) was associated with a decreased risk of total mortality and mortality from cancer. There was only a small reduction in risk of death from cardiovascular disease. 

Large studies such as this, won't necessarily tease out who is most likely to benefit. We do know that fish oil helps reduce triglycerides in those with high levels of triglycerides. We also know that fish oil is associated with a reduced incidence of heart arrhythmias. Functional medicine practitioners help you find what is right for you.