Fish consumption could prolong older people’s life, says study

American researchers have claimed that certain people in later life can reduce the risk of premature death by eating fish

17:30 03 April 2013

A study has suggested that older people who have high levels of a certain fatty acid in their bloodstream can extend their life by a few years from eating fish. This relates to those people in later life who have higher amounts of omega 3 fatty acids than others. 

Researchers from Harvard School of Public Health, as well as from the University of Washington, have claimed that by this type of person eating fish two times a week, they could extend their life on average by at least two full years. 

 

The findings come after data was collected over a period of at least 15 years, involving several thousand individuals over the age of 65 years old in America. This was done in association with the study by the Cardiovascular Health Study. 

 

Some experts also claim that, compared to adults with lower amounts of omega 3 fatty acids, citizens with higher levels are apparently less prone to dying from heart disease by around 30per cent. 

 

Professor Dariush Mozaffarian, of Harvard School of Public Health, commented on this topic saying: “Although eating fish has long been considered part of a healthy diet, few studies have assessed blood omega-3 levels and total deaths in older adults.” 

 

Adding that: “Our findings support the importance of adequate blood omega-3 levels for cardiovascular health, and suggest that later in life these benefits could actually extend the years of remaining life.” 

 

The omega 3 fatty acids are usually found in fish which is relatively full of oils, as well as other seafood types. 

 

It is advisable to lead a healthy and active life and to maintain a well-balanced diet in order to help look after your health.