Evidence check: FADS1 in the context of Langlebigkeit

Evidence for FADS1 variants in the context of longevity is mixed. FADS1 encodes a delta-5 desaturase that regulates polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) metabolism. Some GWAS studies show associations with inflammatory markers, cardiovascular risk, and age-related diseases. However, effect sizes are small (often <5 % variance explained) and population-dependent. Direct evidence that dietary adjustments based on FADS1 variants extend lifespan is lacking. Consumer DNA tests like MyBody-X can report these variants, but clinical utility for longevity is unclear. A balanced diet with adequate omega-3 fatty acids remains more important than genotype-based tailoring. Beware of overhyped marketing claims.