For years, people with type 2 diabetes were advised to avoid fish oil supplements because of the negative effects on blood sugar control. However, a review of studies involving 823 patients with type 2 diabetes found that fish oil supplementation had no harmful effect on short- or long-term blood glucose control - and significantly lowered triglyceride levels. The subjects were given doses ranging from 3,000-18,000 mg per day.
Fish oil, which contains the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, is powerful medicine for disorders ranging from heart disease and depression to arthritis and autoimmune disorders. EPA is particularly beneficial for the cardiovascular system, as it relaxes the arteries, and lowers triglyceride and cholesterol levels. EPA is also a natural anti-inflammatory. DHA enhances nerve cell communication and provides fuel for the neuron’s mitochondria - which keep your mind sharp and alert.
Recent research found that women with diabetes who took 3,000 mg of fish oil a day for two months had significant improvements in body fat and blood lipid levels. Omega-3 fatty acids have also been shown to decrease the risk of type 1 diabetes in genetically at-risk children.
All of these health benefits make fish oil a top supplement for the prevention and treatment of numerous complications associated with diabetes.
I recommend that everyone, regardless of health status, take a minimum of 2 grams of high-quality fish oil per day. If your cholesterol and triglycerides are high, consider increasing this to 4 or more grams daily. For these larger doses, look for liquid or concentrated fish oil supplements. They beat taking handfuls of capsules.
Yours in good health,
Dr. Whitaker
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