Omega-3s Linked to Reduced DNA Damage in Children
A recent study published in Food & Function highlights a powerful new benefit of omega-3s: protecting DNA from damage. Researchers in Brazil examined blood levels of omega-3s (EPA and DHA), vitamin B12, beta-carotene, and riboflavin in 140 healthy children and teens. Among all nutrients measured, omega-3 levels showed the strongest inverse relationship with DNA damage.
Using the comet assay method to evaluate DNA integrity, the researchers found that children with higher omega-3 levels had significantly less DNA damage than those with lower levels. This is particularly important because DNA damage is linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Monitoring omega-3 status could therefore serve as a key tool in chronic disease prevention.
How Omega-3s Protect Your Genetic Blueprint
The protective effect of EPA and DHA is largely attributed to their role in:
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Regulating inflammatory responses through pro-resolving mediators
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Competing with omega-6 fatty acids, thereby reducing the production of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids
Other studies have echoed these findings. For instance, fish oil rich in EPA and DHA has been shown to reduce DNA damage in vascular endothelial cells and diabetic individuals after dietary intervention.
These findings suggest that long-chain omega-3s play a vital role in maintaining genomic stability, especially during the early years of development. Public health policies focused on improving nutritional status, particularly omega-3 intake, may be an effective strategy for long-term disease prevention.
A high-quality supplement like Ballstad Omega-3, which delivers pure EPA and DHA, can be an excellent support for families aiming to protect their children’s health at a cellular level.
Telomeres, Aging, and Omega-3s
DNA strands are protected by structures called telomeres, which naturally shorten with age. Shortened telomeres are a known marker of biological aging and disease risk. Fortunately, research shows that omega-3s help slow telomere shortening.
In one study involving patients with coronary artery disease, higher Omega-3 Index scores were associated with a slower rate of telomere shortening over five years, suggesting a direct link between omega-3 intake and healthy aging.
Omega-3s and Healthy Aging: What the Data Shows
A pivotal study published in the British Medical Journal in 2018 analyzed data from over 2,600 adults in the Cardiovascular Health Study. Individuals with higher blood levels of long-chain omega-3s — EPA, DPA, and DHA — were 18% less likely to experience "unhealthy aging" over a 14-year period.
“Unhealthy aging” included the development of cardiovascular disease, cancer, cognitive decline, and physical disability. Higher omega-3 levels, particularly EPA and DPA, stood out as protective against these age-related outcomes.
The study’s conclusion reinforced existing dietary guidelines: older adults should aim to increase their intake of long-chain omega-3s through seafood or high-quality supplements. For those who struggle to meet dietary recommendations, Ballstad Omega-3 supports longevity and quality of life.
Omega-3 Index: A Strong Predictor of Lifespan
In a 2018 study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology, researchers measured Omega-3 Index levels in 2,500 participants of the Framingham Heart Study (aged 66–73). They found a:
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33% lower risk of all-cause mortality in individuals with the highest Omega-3 Index levels
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Strong associations between higher omega-3 levels and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other causes of death
Interestingly, the Omega-3 Index outperformed serum cholesterol as a predictor of heart disease risk. These findings further underscore the importance of maintaining an optimal Omega-3 Index — ideally between 8–12%.
Regular use of Ballstad Omega-3, paired with periodic Omega-3 Index testing, is a practical way to stay within the protective range and reduce your long-term health risks.
Longevity and Omega-3s in Women’s Health
Additional evidence from the Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study, involving over 6,500 postmenopausal women (ages 65–80), found that women with an Omega-3 Index above 8% had a:
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Stronger resilience against heart attacks, stroke, and cancer
In contrast, those with Omega-3 Index levels below 4% were at higher risk. These findings reinforce that achieving optimal omega-3 status is not just ideal—it’s essential, especially for women navigating later stages of life.
Protecting Your DNA and Your Future with Omega-3s
From DNA integrity in childhood to telomere protection and longevity in older age, omega-3 fatty acids play a central role in maintaining health across the lifespan. Whether through nutrient-dense foods or supplements, ensuring consistent intake of EPA and DHA is a science-backed strategy for preventing disease and promoting healthy aging.
Ballstad Omega-3 provides a reliable, high-purity source of EPA and DHA to support cellular health, cardiovascular resilience, and lifespan—making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking long-term wellness grounded in evidence.
