Omega-3s boost bone mass in young men

Increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are linked to increased bone build up in young men, says a new study.

The new study adds to previous research reported that diets with a low ratio of omega-6 fatty acids to omega-3 fatty acids may minimize bone loss. Indeed, the new study, published in the current issue of The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition also reports that higher ratios of n-6 to n-3 fatty acids was negatively associated with bone build up during these formative years.

The researchers, led by Magnus Högström, recruited 78 healthy young men from high schools and sports clubs with an average age of 16.7 at the start of the study.

"Our key finding was a positive association between n-3 fatty acids and Bone Mineral Density of the total body and spine and the accumulation of BMD at the spine between 16 and 22 years of age in this cohort of healthy young men," said the researchers.