A new study has found that omega 3 supplements improve insulin sensitivity* in people with type 2 diabetes. The mechanism appears to involve a decrease in non-esterified (‘free’ or unsaturated) fatty acids. Previous research has shown that an increase in the body’s non-esterified fatty acid levels may increase people’s risk of obesity, insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.
The Iranian research involving 44 people with type 2 diabetes, gave half the participants 4 grams a day of omega 3 soft gels and the other half a placebo for 10 weeks.
The researchers found that “omega 3 supplementation caused a significant reduction in non-esterified fatty acids and insulin levels (p=0.009)”.
There was also an improvement in insulin sensitivity among the group taking omega 3 supplementation.
*Insulin sensitivity describes how sensitive the body is to the effects of insulin. Improving insulin sensitivity means that an individual will require less insulin to lower blood glucose levels.
Source: Effects of supplementation with omega-3 on insulin sensitivity and non-esterified free fatty acid (NEFA) in type 2 diabetic patients; Arq Bras Endocrinol Metabol. 2014 Jun; 58(4):335-40 & www.blackmoresinstitute.org/login/news-and-insights/Omega-3-supplements-insulin-sensitivity-type-2-diabetes, Thursday 10 July 2014