Fish oil diabetes Fish oil may benefit people with diabetes, study finds
Researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway studied the effect of fish oil
supplements on blood lipoprotein in 26 people with Type 2 diabetes. The study participants were assigned to take either fish oil or corn oil supplements. Size and concentration of lipoproteins subclasses (several
blood cholesterol markers) as well as insulin sensitivity were measured after nine weeks of supplementation. High doses of fish oil reduced the size and concentration of several lipoprotein subclasses while lowering insulin sensitivity. Results of this study were published online on the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition website on Feb. 28, 2007.
Fish oil diabetes Editor's Note - Multiple Benefits of Fish Oil and Omega 3
Benefits of fish oil and
omega 3 fatty acids are well known for their role in heart disease prevention. The American Heart Association advises heart disease sufferers and people with high triglyceride levels to take fish oil supplements. Recent studies suggest that fish oil may prevent dementia and ease depression. Clinical studies regarding the effects of fish oil on diabetes are still preliminary, however.
How much Fish Oil? For heart health benefits, experts suggested to aim for 250 milligrams as EPA/DHA from fish source a day. One three ounce serving of fatty fish, such as salmon or mackerel, provides more than 1000 milligrams alone. For people with documented heart disease or high levels of triglycerides, the American Heart Association suggests 1,000 milligrams per day and 2,000 to 4,000 milligrams per day, respectively.
by Gloria Tsang, RD
