Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Healthy Lungs

Study demonstrates prevention, hints at causation, and sets foundation for treatment research

Omega-rich food may be able to prevent age-related decline in lung function, according to a large study of 15,000 Americans. Shutterstock

The anti-inflammatory benefits of omega-3 fatty acids are well known, but a new study finds that they could preserve lung function as we age.

Published in June in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the study looked at levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the blood of more than 15,000 Americans and found that higher levels were associated with a slower rate of age-related lung function decline.