Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

One of the main limiting factors in long-duration spaceflight is the weakening of bones in prolonged weightlessness. One way to counter that is to pursue a rigorous exercise regimen during flight. Another way may be to create artificial onboard deep space ships. A new study by NASA suggests eating omega-3 fatty acids might also help.

The study suggests those acids, found in fish oil, counter the loss of calcium in bones. As added, anecdotal evidence, it seems to be the case that astronauts who have eaten more fish than red meat during missions have experienced less bone loss than astronauts who ate more meat. If this finding is confirmed, there seems to be a multi-faceted strategy that could protect the bone health of astronauts during extended spaceflight.

NASA also points out that the results of this study could aid the treatment of osteoporosis on Earth.

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