Scientists have revealed that a combination of omega-3, vitamin D supplements and regular exercise can slow biological ageing in older adults by several months.
The study, analysing data from more than 700 participants, found the that the regimen reduced biological ageing by three to four months over a three-year period.
Scientists say the latest findings could help lower the risk of age-related health issues.
The Do-HEALTH trial examined participants aged 70 and older across five European countries between 2012 and 2014.
Participants taking vitamin D and omega-3 supplements reversed their biological age by several months
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Participants received either a placebo or a combination of 1 gram daily omega-3 from algae, 2,000 international units of vitamin D, and performed 30 minutes of exercise three times weekly.
Half of participants included in the study, conducted in Switzerland, were considered to be in good health.
Researchers used four biological clocks to measure aging through changes in DNA methylation at the molecular level.
The PhenoAge clock showed that participants taking the combined treatment slowed their biological aging by approximately 2.9 to 3.8 months over the three-year period.
The study also found that whilst omega-3 alone showed benefits, the combination of all three interventions produced the strongest effects.
Lead researcher Dr Heike A. Bischoff-Ferrari noted that previous studies from the same trial showed omega-3 reduced falls by 10 per cent and infections by up to 13 per cent.
"Our findings provide a strong signal that omega-3 supplementation slows biological aging in humans, and that the combination vitamin D and exercise may make this effect even stronger," she said.
The study also found that the combined treatment lowered the risk of pre-frailty by 39 per cent and invasive cancer by 61 per cent.
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The health benefits of daily exercise cannot be overstated
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Dr Steve Horvath, another lead researcher, said these results "support these three public health strategies as a combined solution at the public health level to extend health span in older adults".
He noted the strategies were both affordable and safe over the three-year follow-up period.
While researchers noted that further studies are needed to confirm if slowing molecular aging directly leads to longer life, the findings suggest promising implications for public health.
Dr. Clifford Segil, a neurologist not involved in the research, emphasised the importance of exercise, stating: "Everyone should consider exercising as we age as it will help us stay young."
When it comes to taking new supplements, however, talking to a health care provider first is advised.
