Researchers from the University of Glasgow have found that krill oil supplementation may improve muscle strength, size, and function in healthy adults over the age of 65.
The study, led by Dr. Stuart Gray and published in Clinical Nutrition, suggests that krill oil could help counteract the gradual decline in muscle mass and function that occurs with aging.
As people age, muscle deterioration is a natural part of the process, leading to reduced strength and mobility.
Previous research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), play a key role in supporting muscle protein synthesis, volume, and strength.
Krill oil is a rich source of these omega-3 fatty acids and also contains choline, a nutrient thought to benefit muscle metabolism.
The Study Design
The study involved 102 healthy men and women aged 65 and older. Participants were divided into two groups: one group received four grams of Superba krill oil daily for six months, while the other group received a placebo.
The researchers then measured changes in muscle function, size, and several biochemical markers.
Key Findings
At the end of the study, those who received krill oil showed notable improvements compared to the placebo group:
- Thigh muscle strength increased by 9.3%, and grip strength improved by 10.9%.
- Thigh muscle thickness grew by 3.5%.
- Blood markers showed significant increases in omega-3 fatty acid levels: EPA increased by 214%, DHA by 36%, and the omega-3 index by 61%.
- The M-Wave, a measure of muscle membrane excitability, improved by 17%, indicating better muscle function.
These results suggest that regular supplementation with krill oil can enhance muscle strength and size while improving the overall fatty acid profile in the blood.
Why Krill Oil?
The benefits of krill oil likely stem from its high concentrations of EPA and DHA, which are essential for maintaining muscle health as the body ages. Additionally, the choline found in krill oil may support skeletal muscle metabolism, further enhancing its effects on muscle function.
Implications for Aging Adults
This study adds to the growing evidence that omega-3 fatty acids are vital nutrients for older adults. The findings suggest that daily supplementation with krill oil could help maintain muscle strength, size, and function, potentially improving quality of life for aging individuals.
For those looking for a natural way to support muscle health, krill oil may offer an effective and accessible option.
While the results are promising, further research is needed to explore long-term effects and potential benefits for people with more advanced muscle loss or other health conditions.
Nonetheless, this study highlights the importance of omega-3 fatty acids and choline in promoting healthy aging.
If you care about muscle, please read studies about factors that can cause muscle weakness in older people, and scientists find a way to reverse high blood sugar and muscle loss.
For more health information, please see recent studies about an easy, cheap way to maintain muscles, and results showing these vegetables essential for your muscle strength.
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