The degeneration of cells and organs are part of the natural ageing process, but by taking careful steps you can help to minimise the effects. Research shows that people in their senior years tend to be good fish eaters, especially oil-rich fish, when compared to other age groups.
The consumption of oil-rich fish (and the long-chain omega 3 essential fatty acids EPA and DHA) can help to minimise the risks of the following conditions.
Cardiovascular disease
There is an abundance of research to support eating oil-rich fish to protect against cardiovascular diseases, such as strokes and heart attacks. Below is a summary of the possible heart health benefits of the regular consumption of the long-chain omega 3s, EPA and DHA, which are found in oil-rich fish:
| • | Lowering of blood pressure |
| • | Protecting against sudden cardiac death |
| • | Lowering of blood fat levels |
| • | Preventing fatal blood clots |
| • | Maintaining blood vessel dilation |
| • | Anti-inflammatory effects such as increasing the plaque stability on artery walls so that they are less likely to rupture |
| • | Improving the vascular endothelial function |
| • | Reducing the risk of hardened arteries |
| • | Improved insulin sensitivity |
Moreover, trials with omega 3 essential fatty acids have shown that there is significant protection from a further incident for people who have already suffered from a cardiac condition.
Age-related deterioration of eyesight
omega 3 essential fatty acids are a component of the retina, so maintaining healthy levels of omega 3 could slow down the deterioration of eyesight.
Mental deterioration
Alzheimer’s disease, dementia / memory loss, and other conditions of mental deterioration can be lessened with the maintenance of healthy levels of omega 3 essential fatty acids.
Inflammatory conditions
There is much evidence showing that omega 3 essential fatty acids play an important role in the modulation of inflammatory processes. Inflammatory diseases of joints, kidney, gut and skin include conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disorders.
Rheumatoid arthritis is proving to have a clear relationship with omega 3 essential fatty acids, with studies that supplement people with these essential fatty acids having positive results. People with rheumatoid arthritis are also encouraged to have a healthy balanced diet, inclusive of lots of fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure a good supply of antioxidants*. Having a diet rich in omega 3 essential fatty acids also reduces the need to rely on conventional anti-inflammatory medicines such as aspirin.
References
* Rennie KL, Hughes J, Lang R, Jebb SA. Nutritional management of rheumatoid arthritis: a review of the evidence. Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics. 2003 Apr;16(2):97-109.