Fish Oil and Muscle Function

Loss of muscle mass is a normal consequence of aging in many older adults, worsened by
chronic illness, poor appetite and diet, and reduced physical activity. The ensuing decline
in physical function is a major cause of frailty, disability and death. Treatments that can
reverse or reduce the age-associated loss of muscle mass are therefore much needed. Evidence
is emerging that consumption of fish or fish oil derived long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated
fatty acids (LCn-3PUFA) may be important for maintenance of muscle mass and physical
function throughout the life-span. However, the effect of LCn-3PUFA supplementation on
muscle mass, muscle strength and overall physical function is not known. The goal of this
study therefore is to determine the effect of LCn-3PUFA supplementation on muscle mass,
muscle strength and physical function in older adults.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Non-obese (i.e., BMI less than 35 kg/m2)

- Between 18 to 45 or between 60 and 85 y old

- Subjects who are sedentary (<1 h of exercise/week)

Exclusion Criteria:

- Subjects with evidence of significant organ system dysfunction (e.g. diabetes, severe
cardiovascular disease, hyperlipidemia, cirrhosis, hypogonadism, uncontrolled hypo-
or hyperthyroidism; uncontrolled hypertension)

- Subjects with metal implants

- Subjects with iron storage disease,

- Subjects with severe ambulatory impairments,

- Individuals with cancer or cancer that has been in remission for <5 years,

- Individuals with dementia,

- Individuals who smoke,

- Subjects who are taking medications known to affect muscle (e.g., steroids),

- Subjects who receive anticoagulant therapy.

- Subjects taking medications to control certain medical conditions (e.g.,
hypertension) will be included if the drug regimen has been stable for at least 6
months before entering the study and is not expected to change during the study.

- Subjects with allergies to sea food,

- Subjects who regularly consume fish oil or consume >2 servings of fish with a high
LCn-3PUFA content (e.g. salmon, mackerel, sardines, etc) per week.

- Physical performance test score less than 17 out of 36.