There is new scientific interest in how omega-3 fatty acids affect kidney disease, especially in older adults. Omega-3 fatty acids are unsaturated fatty acids that are mainly found in fish oil and are known for their health benefits. Research now indicates that these fatty acids may also play a protective role in kidney ageing.
Experiments with older mice show that long-term omega-3 supplementation can improve the structure and function of the kidneys. Fewer signs of damage and calcification were found in the kidney cells, while the filtering function of the kidneys improved. Furthermore, important proteins and cells that slow down ageing processes were produced in greater quantities.
An important mechanism in this regard is the protein FFAR4, which omega-3 fatty acids act upon. This protein is less abundant in older kidneys, which is associated with impaired kidney function. Activation of FFAR4 with omega-3 appears to reduce the ageing of kidney cells and counteract the deposition of scar tissue, thereby supporting kidney health.
Although the precise effects in humans still need to be further investigated, these findings offer new opportunities to treat or delay kidney disease in the elderly. For people who want to age healthily, this research emphasises the importance of a good fatty acid balance for kidney preservation.
Source: Josh Conway
