Can Omega-3 Prevent Type 1 Diabetes?

Main Category: Diabetes
Also Included In: Nutrition / Diet;  Pediatrics / Children's Health
Article Date: 28 Sep 2007 - 2:00 PST

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Researchers are claiming that consuming omega-3, the fatty acids often found in fish oils, can prevent Type 1 diabetes in some children who are at high risk of developing the condition.

Scientists in Colarado followed the diet of 1,770 young children between 1994 and 2006.

They wanted to see if omega-3 could affect the development of auto-antibodies to the insulin-producing beta cells in children with an increased risk, such as a family history of Type 1 diabetes.

It is being reported today that dietary intake of omega-3 can lower these children's chances of developing the condition by around 55 per cent.

Cathy Moulton, Care Advisor at Diabetes UK, said: "This is an interesting new study. Diabetes UK recommends that people follow a healthy, balanced diet that includes portions of oily fish, such as tuna, mackeral and sardines - which are naturally rich in a variety of fatty acids and vitamin D - rather than taking additional supplements.

"More research needs to be done to find out how beneficial fish oil can be in reducing the risk of developing Type 1 diabetes."

http://www.diabetes.org.uk