A recent study published in the BMJ found that omega-3 fatty acids found in seafood were linked to healthier aging among older individuals. Populations worldwide are living longer, and the demand for a longer health-span is increasing. If you've never heard the term "health-span" before, it refers to living longer without chronic disease and with good physical and mental function.
In the study researchers measured the blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids in participants at baseline, at 6 years into the study, and then at the end of the study (year 13). Seafoods rich in omega-3 fatty acids actually have specific types of these acids called eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA). Alpha linolenic acid (ALA) is also an omega-3, but it is mostly found in plant sources such as flaxseeds and walnuts. So for the sake of this study, researchers were only looking at EPA, DHA, and DPA.
At the end of the study, researchers concluded that EPA was associated with a 24% risk reduction of unhealthy aging, and DPA levels were associated with an 18-21% risk reduction. They didn't find an association between DHA for healthy aging. Though, that doesn't mean that DHA intake won't improve overall health.
The reason that these omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to help improve healthy aging is that they can help regulate blood pressure, reduce triglyceride levels, lower heart rate, and reduce inflammation. So if you want to be healthier as you age, eat your fatty fish! The best sources of omega-3 fatty acids from seafood come from salmon, mackerel, seabass, sardines, oysters, shrimp and trout. It's best to seek out wild-caught and sustainable sources of these seafoods when possible. If you're curious about the dangers of farmed fish, you can read Dr. Axe's article about this topic here.
Now that you've committed to eating more seafood for healthier aging, check out these delicious recipes gathered for you from around the internet:
Honey Lime Cilantro Baked Shrimp from Cotter Crunch
Broiled Salmon from The Castaway Kitchen
Cioppino (Fisherman's Stew) from Whip and Wander
Keto Crab Cakes from Cast Iron Keto
Easy Halibut Over Asian Slaw from PaleOMG
Oven Baked Salmon with Papaya-Mango Salsa from A Squirrel in the Kitchen
Smoked Salmon Dip from Tasty Yummies
Spicy Shrimp Egg Roll in a Bowl from Paleo Running Momma
Mahi Mahi Tacos with Tropical Salsa from Lexi's Clean Kitchen
Low Carb Seafood Dim Sum from I Heart Umami