Metabolic syndrome: lower risk of diabetes with Omega 3 supplements

Omega 3 fatty acids Omega 3 can improve blood lipid levels in individuals affected by metabolic syndrome. This is demonstrated by a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, which shows that the risk of developing serious health problems associated with this disorder – such as diabetes – can be reduced by combining a low-fat, complex carbohydrate-rich diet with Omega-3 supplementation. According to the study authors, fish oil supplements, which are rich in these fatty acids, help correct various metabolic alterations linked to insulin resistance. These include the concentration of plasma lipids after meals.

Metabolic syndrome and risk factors

Metabolic syndrome is a condition characterized by the simultaneous presence of several factors that threaten the body's health. These include obesity, hypertension, elevated blood lipid levels, and high blood sugar concentrations. All these conditions increase the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Moreover, the typical conditions of metabolic syndrome correspond to an increased risk of disorders such as heart disease and stroke. The causes of this dangerous condition are not fully understood; however, experts believe metabolic syndrome results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Among the latter is an unhealthy diet. For this reason, one of the most commonly used approaches to counter this condition has been following a diet low in saturated fatty acids – which are harmful to health – and rich in complex carbohydrates – like those found in bread, pasta, rice, and potatoes. However, some studies have suggested that such a diet is not sufficient to reduce high blood lipid levels. In fact, recent research has shown that this type of diet could even increase blood fat concentrations.

The help of Omega-3

In this new study, a group of researchers led by José Lopez-Miranda from the University of Cordoba (Spain) confirmed that a low-fat, complex carbohydrate-rich diet can produce harmful effects. These include increased triglyceride and cholesterol levels. Conversely, the same diet combined with Omega-3 supplementation has no effect on blood lipid levels. Furthermore, a diet rich in monounsaturated fatty acids or low in fat but rich in complex carbohydrates and Omega-3 corresponds to lower circulating blood fat levels compared to a diet high in saturated fatty acids or low in fat and rich in complex carbohydrates.

Fatty acids against metabolic syndrome

The data obtained by the Spanish researchers confirm the results of previous studies showing that monounsaturated fatty acids can positively influence blood lipid levels. Moreover, according to the authors, this study suggests the usefulness of high levels of Omega-3 intake in individuals suffering from metabolic syndrome.