A new study shows Omega-3’s derived from fish oil may reduce the normal decrease in muscle mass and muscle function that occurs in older individuals.
60 healthy individuals between ages 60 and 85 participated in this 6 months randomized controlled trial. Participants randomly were assigned to receive either 1.86 grams of EPA and 1.5 grams of DHA daily or a placebo (corn oil). 44 people completed the study. The individuals receiving the Omega 3 supplement saw an increase of 3.6% in muscle volume measured in the thigh compared to the placebo group. Additionally a 4% increase in muscle strength was seen in the supplement group in comparison to the group receiving the placebo.
Muscle loss occurs naturally as we age. It is believed that after the age of 50 we lose approximately 1-2 % of our muscle mass yearly. A 1.5% reduction in strength also occurs as we hit 50 years of age. After the age of 60 that number accelerated to 3%.
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