The trial studied age-related muscle concerns
Sixty adults aged 60–85 were randomized to fish-oil-derived omega-3 or corn oil for six months. Forty-four completed the study, with similar completion proportions in both groups. [1]
Compared with control, omega-3 treatment increased thigh muscle volume by about 3.6%, handgrip strength by 2.3 kilograms and one-repetition maximum strength by about 4%. The power result was a nonsignificant trend. [1]
The outcomes do not establish every practical benefit
The study did not demonstrate fewer falls, longer independent living or a particular bodybuilding result. A percentage change in thigh muscle volume is not the same as the same percentage gain in total body muscle. [1]
Funding and conflicts were not established from the abstract. The sample size, attrition and population limit transfer to younger athletes or people with major illness. These results do not identify a universal supplement amount or replace resistance exercise and adequate nutrition. [1]
Keep the measured body region attached
Imagine a scan finds a small change in thigh muscle volume. Reporting that as an identical change in whole-body muscle mass would alter the measurement.
| Detail | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Ages 60–85 | Studied population |
| 44 completers | Attrition matters |
| Young bodybuilders | Not directly studied |
Sources for this article
- Fish oil-derived n-3 PUFA therapy increases muscle mass and function in healthy older adults - PubMed
Source consulted: 2026-09-19. This is a reference resource, not a claim that we conducted the studies or tested a product.