Brits may be missing out on the healthy ageing benefits of Omega-3 - as more than half admit they're put off eating 'smelly' fish.

Omega-3 fatty acids, found mainly in oily fish such as salmon and mackerel, support heart, brain, and eye health as well as normal blood pressure, however are being missed out on by many.

The study by Seven Seas revealed that 54% of Brits are put off eating more fish because they don't like the taste or smell of it.

It also discovered that a whopping 60% of people fail to hit the government's recommendation of eating at least two portions of fish a week.

Of 2,258 adults quizzed, only 34% said they recognised Omega-3's link to healthy ageing, while nearly a fifth don't know what it does at all.

Despite low awareness, around half of respondents said they worry they're not getting enough Omega-3 in their diet.

Healthy ageing is firmly on the public's radar, with 85% taking an interest in this topic, yet more than 45 million Brits are unaware of Omega-3's role to support healthy ageing.

Almost half (47%) are unaware of the amount of Omega-3 you should be consuming each day for health benefits, with the same number admitting they don’t think about EPA and DHA levels when choosing health supplements.

These are two important Omega-3 fatty acids that support heart, brain and eye health and help maintain normal blood pressure.

Even though Omega-3 is present in every cell of our bodies it's not easily produced. EPA and DHA fatty acids are primarily found in oily fish such as salmon and mackerel or through supplements.

Studies also highlight a gap between recommended and actual levels. While evidence suggests an Omega-3 index above 8% supports cardiovascular health, the average UK level is around 5.5%.

Despite this aversion to fish, the study shows that more than two-thirds of people don't currently take an Omega-3 supplement, despite the huge interest in healthy ageing.

Eating oily fish or taking an Omega-3 supplement can help increase the Omega-3 index, with evidence showing that around 1,000 mg of EPA and DHA daily can reach the ideal levels within 12 weeks or more.

Professional Chef Marcus Wareing, who's taken Omega-3 since childhood, said it remains an important part of his routine for supporting long-term health.

Marcus said: "Now I'm in my 50s, I really pay attention to what I'm putting in my body.

"As a chef, quality is everything and it's the same with my supplements.

"Omega-3 is my go-to supplement so I can keep doing the things that I love.

"I personally take Seven Seas Omega-3 Max Strength as it's formulated with premium Omega-3 for better absorption.

"It's simple habits that enable us to live well. So stay active, focus on eating healthy balanced meals and, if needed, top-up with supplements. It's never too late to start.

"I've taken Seven Seas since childhood, it's like a hug from my mum."

Health coach Donna Bartoli, who specialises in holistic skincare and wellness, said: "When I speak with my community about healthy ageing, one of the first things we look at is Omega-3 intake.

"Many people don't realise how little they're getting from their weekly meals especially if oily fish, such as mackerel, salmon or sardines, isn’t a regular part of their diet.

"Adding an Omega-3 supplement can be a simple and effective way to top-up your intake and support healthy ageing."

Charlotte Brewster at Seven Seas said: "At Seven Seas we believe healthy ageing starts with proper nutrition.

"Regardless of where you are on your health journey, Seven Seas provides tailored supplements supported by more than 85 years of Omega-3 scientific expertise.

"Our range is designed to meet individual dietary and lifestyle needs, offering various strengths of Omega-3 to help top-up your Omega-3 levels.

"We also recognise that individuals may want support from other benefit-led spaces, such as Joints, Multivitamins or Gut Health, which is why our portfolio expands across these areas, whilst also adding in our Omega-3."

DONNA BARTOLI'S TOP SEVEN TIPS FOR HEALTHY AGEING

1 Eat a varied, whole-food diet

"Healthy ageing starts with building meals around foods your body recognises. Focus on a varied, colourful diet with vegetables, wholegrains, quality protein and healthy fats as part of your routine."

2 Get outside and support vitamin D levels

"Spending time outdoors is important for both physical and mental wellbeing at every age. Natural daylight helps support vitamin D levels, which play a role in the maintenance of normal bones, immune system and muscle function."

3 Stay active and keep your body moving

"Regular movement becomes even more important as we age. Activities like walking, strength training, yoga or swimming can help support mobility, circulation and overall wellbeing. I also love incorporating hot and cold exposure, whether that’s saunas, cold water or contrast showers, to further support circulation and resilience. It doesn’t have to be extreme - just consistent."

4 Include healthy fats and consider Omega-3

"Healthy fats, such as EPA and DHA found in oily fish, play an important role in supporting healthy ageing. If your diet does not contain enough Omega-3, you may consider topping up with Omega-3 supplements such as Seven Seas."

5 Choose supplements with care

"When choosing an Omega-3, look at the levels of EPA and DHA, as these are the key fatty acids that help support heart, brain and vision. It’s also worth considering quality, purity and absorption when selecting a product."

6 Think long term, not quick fixes

"Healthy ageing isn’t about overnight changes. Small, consistent habits - from nutrition and movement to supplementation - can help support health and wellbeing every day."

7 Be mindful of sugar and support your overall wellbeing

"One of the biggest ageing accelerators is consuming excess sugar. Being mindful of sugar intake and focusing on balanced meals can support energy levels and overall wellbeing. Prioritising whole foods, along with protein and healthy fats, can help you feel more balanced throughout the day."