What is this study about?

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As people get older their muscle mass decreases, which is detrimental for health. Omega (ω)-polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) derived from fish oil could be beneficial to retain and prevent loss of muscle mass and function. 

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Omega-3 fatty acids are a family of essential fatty acids that play important roles in your body and may provide a number of health benefits. Common foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish, fish oils, flax seeds, flaxseed oil, and walnuts.

 

However, there are gaps in the knowledge of how omega-3 fatty acids act on muscle health. We do not know what the most effective strategy of supplementation is, or how quickly n-3 PUFAs are incorporated into blood, muscle and fat tissue. We also don't know how long it takes before fish oils have left the body (washout) in both young and older people.

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This study aims to tackle these problems.  

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Data gathered from this study will be used to provide insights into the incorporation of n-3 PUFAs in different tissues and their washout in young and older people. Ultimately, this knowledge will help to target the prevention of loss and maintenance of muscle mass and function.

 

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