Metabolic syndrome: less risk of diabetes with Omega 3 supplements

Omega-3 fatty acids can improve blood lipid levels in individuals with metabolic syndrome. This is shown by a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, which found that the risk of developing the serious health problems associated with this disorder--such as, for example, diabetes--can be reduced by combining a diet low in fat and rich in complex carbohydrates with an intake of Omega-3s. According to the research authors, fish oil supplements, a supplement rich in these fatty acids, help correct a number of metabolic changes associated with insulin resistance. These include plasma lipid concentration after meals.

Metabolic syndrome and risk factors

Metabolic syndrome is a condition characterized by the simultaneous presence of several factors that put the body's health at risk. These include obesity, hypertension, high blood lipid levels, and high blood sugar concentrations. All of these conditions increase the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Not only that, conditions typical of metabolic syndrome correspond to an increase in disorders such as heart disease and stroke. The causes of the establishment of this dangerous situation are not fully known. However, experts believe that metabolic syndrome is the result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The latter include an improper diet. For this reason, one of the most widely used approaches to counteract the condition has been to follow adiet low in saturated fatty acids -- those harmful to health -- and rich in complex carbohydrates -- such as 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. On the contrary, more recent research has shown that this type of diet may even increase blood fat concentrations.

Omega-3's help

In this new study, a team of researchers coordinated by José Lopez-Miranda of the University of Cordoba (Spain) confirmed that a diet low in fat and high in complex carbohydrates can produce harmful effects. These include increased levels of triglycerides and cholesterol. Conversely, the same diet, combined withOmega-3 intake, has no effect on blood lipid levels. Not only that, a diet high in monounsaturated fatty acids or low in fat, but high in complex carbohydrates and Omega-3 corresponds to a lower amount of circulating fat in the blood than is detectable in the case of a diet high in saturated fatty acids or low in fat and high in complex carbohydrates.

Fatty acids against metabolic syndrome

The data obtained by the Spanish researchers corroborate previous research findings that monounsaturated fatty acids can positively influence blood lipid levels. In addition, according to the authors, this study suggests the usefulness of taking high levels of Omega-3 in those suffering from metabolic syndrome.