Omega-3 Fatty Acids to Combat Sarcopenia

Omega-3 Fatty Acids to Combat Sarcopenia

The purpose of this study is to determine how omega-3 fatty acids influence muscle protein metabolism and mitochondrial physiology in the context of human aging.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18-35 or 65-85 years

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Current use of omega-3 nutritional supplements
2. Fasting plasma glucose ≥126 mg/dL
3. Active coronary artery disease
4. Participation in structured exercise (>3 times per week for 30 minutes or longer)
5. Smoking
6. Medications known to affect muscle metabolism (e.g., beta blockers, corticosteroids, tricyclic-antidepressants, benzodiazepines, opiates, barbiturates, anticoagulants)
7. Renal failure (serum creatinine > 1.5mg/dl)
8. Chronic active liver disease (Bilirubin > 17mmol/L, AST>144IU/L, or ALT>165IU/L)
9. Anti-coagulant therapy (warfarin/heparin)
10. INR >3
11. Use of systemic glucocorticoids
12. Chronic use of NSAIDS or aspirin
13. Pregnancy or breastfeeding
14. Alcohol consumption greater than 2 glasses/day
15. Hypothyroidism
16. Fish or shellfish allergy