Omega-3s Improve Health in Diabetes and Heart Failure
Diabetes and Heart: Fish Oil? A Healthy Boost for Your Health!
Taking Omega-3 can improve the health status of diabetic patients suffering from heart failure. Clinical studies on the benefits of Omega-3 available in scientific literature strongly support this. Researchers from the University of Alberta in Edmonton (Canada) conducted a comprehensive review of this documentation; results were published in the journal Cardiovascular Drugs and Therapy1.
Omega-3, the "Friendly" Fats for the Heart
Omega-3 are considered "friendly" fatty acids for health. The first reports on their benefits date back to the 1970s when it was discovered that the incidence of cardiovascular diseases was particularly low among Greenland populations consuming large amounts of fish. Several studies demonstrate that foods and supplements rich in Omega-3 are particularly useful for heart and blood vessel health: these nutrients can reduce cardiovascular diseases by 19 to 45%. A diet rich in Omega-3 also increases the effectiveness of statins, drugs used to lower cholesterol levels. At the same time, serious side effects are very rare. Experts recommend those at high risk of cardiovascular diseases to increase Omega-3 intake.
Taking Omega-3 in Case of Diabetes: An Extra Help
Patients suffering from heart failure (or cardiac insufficiency) may also have other conditions such as diabetes. The analysis conducted by Canadian researchers shows these patients can particularly benefit from Omega-3 intake: these nutrients modify and reduce molecular mechanisms in the body's cells associated with insulin resistance, the hormone that regulates sugar utilization. Specifically, Omega-3 bind to certain proteins on the cell membrane and allow to:
- reduce the production of molecules involved in inflammatory processes;
- improve the function of fat-accumulating cells.
The final result is a reduction of insulin resistance and an improvement in the health of people with diabetes.
How Much Omega-3 to Take?
Experts recommend a daily dose of 500 milligrams of Omega-3; however, people with cardiovascular diseases should take at least 1 gram per day. Those with triglyceride problems can take 3-4 grams of Omega-3 daily, which can reduce levels by 20-50%. Eating two portions of fatty fish per week provides 400 to 500 mg of these fatty acids. For higher intake, fish oil supplements can be taken.
