There has been some promising research over the years showing a beneficial link between fish oil and diabetes. The reason for the benefit, it has been argued by some health experts, is that essential fatty acids, such as omega-3′s, may raise “good” HDL cholesterol, keeping arteries supple, and help protect against nerve damage.
However, two new studies are also showing that the omega-3 fish oil and diabetes connection may be even more promising than previously thought by helping to prevent the condition from developing to begin with in many people.
The two studies were published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
“One study, conducted in 3,088 men and women aged 65 and older, found that higher blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids did not increase – but decreased – diabetes risk.
Those who had the highest blood concentration of DHA and EPA (combined) were 36 per cent less likely to develop type 2 diabetes over 10 years. Participants with the highest concentration of ALA in their bloodstream had a 43 per cent lower risk of developing diabetes.
The second study analyzed the omega-3 fat intake of 43,176 Chinese adults, aged 45-74, living in Singapore and found that ALA intake was strongly protective from diabetes. Omega 3 fats from fish, however, neither increased nor decreased risk of the disease.”
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My-Omega-3′s Comments:
Interesting studies. As the article points out, the results differ from the different types of omega-3 essential fatty acids being studied. DHA, EPA, and ALA omega-3′s all have different actions and effects on the body. For example, it’s well known that DHA is the most important type of omega-3 for brain health.
The studies referenced above seem to suggest ALA plays a more prominent role in helping with diabetes, although we have found other studies in the past that did not lead to the same conclusion. This is why we personally use both ALA-rich sources of omega-3, such as cold pressed, organic flaxseed oil and a high quality fish oil supplement daily to get a broad spectrum of ALA, EPA, and DHA.
With more than 16 million people in the US alone suffering from diabetes, certain natural foods and supplements can possibly help these people effectively manage their condition and live a better life. Some researchers have previously shown that omega-3 and diabetes are linked in that consuming enough of these essential fats can help manage blood sugar by keeping insulin levels in check and possibly even reverse the disease.
Dr. Barry Sears has a good discussion on the latter part of this in his book “The Omega RX Zone: The Miracle Of The New High-Dose Fish Oil.”
Should you and your family be taking fish oil?