Stave off early death with fish

Even if a person is old and ill, they can still benefit from eating a little more fish. A study undertaken by researchers at NTNU and St. Olavs Hospital documents a clear connection between omega-3 fatty acids and mortality.

A large group of elderly with acute and serious illnesses were followed over three years, and the conclusion was unambiguous: Those who had a measurable amount of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood had a 48 per cent lower risk of dying than patients with lower levels.

A couple of spoonfuls of cod liver oil, two omega-3 capsules or an additional fish meal per week is enough to give better protection from illness and early death, and it is never too late to begin, concluded Professor Kristian Bjerve, who headed the study.