We have know that fish oils, specifically omega 3 fatty acids that are found in oily sea fish such as salmon, mackerel or sardines, are good for our health. “Old Wives” used to attribute intelligence to easting plenty of fish. Finally researchers are getting closer to understanding why fish oil is good for us. The latest research has been published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).

“These findings raise the possibility that omega-3 fatty acids may protect against cellular ageing in patients with coronary heart disease,” Dr Ramin Farzaneh-Far, University of California.

The fish oils help to protect our cells from damage. Omega 3 fatty acids seem to form a protective layer around cells making them more durable. This affects several things relating to health:

• Improved cardiovascular strength – i.e. helps to reduce heart disease
• Improved mental ability, plus reduction in onset of senile dementia
• Improved eye health

The current theory is the many health conditions are cause by cellular aging, and that our lifestyle and diet can speed this cellular aging. This goes some way to explain why people that do not get enough sleep are more likely to develop heart problems – they literally speed the aging process.

“This is an interesting study which may offer a further explanation as to why a dietary intake of omega-3 fats from fish can help to protect your heart. It is well established that a dietary intake of omega-3 is good for heart health. Oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel or sardines, is a nutritious source of omega-3.” June Davison, British Heart Foundation.

The omega 3 fatty acids help to “seal” cells preventing damage to DNA. Damamged DNA in the cells leads to degeneration.

In the study, subjects that consumed more than the average amount of omega 3 experienced a reduction in degeneration of cell protection by 32%.