Is Cod Liver Oil Good For Diabetics?

Cod liver oil is taken from the oil that surrounds the cod's intestines and then encapsulated for use as a daily supplement. You may take cod liver oil for a number of reasons because it contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. While cod liver oil has shown to be beneficial in reducing a number of heart-related conditions like high triglyceride levels and high blood pressure, its effects in treating diabetes, a blood-sugar related condition, have yet to be definitively determined. Always speak to your physician before beginning to take supplements when you have diabetes.

Significance

Diabetes is a condition that affects your body's ability to use insulin and glucose for energy. Insulin acts as the "key" that unlocks the door in your cells that allows glucose in. When you have diabetes, the insulin does not work to properly "unlock" the door to your cells. Your body uses glucose for energy, so when you have diabetes, you may feel lethargic and fatigued because your cells cannot get energy.

Insulin Sensitivity Study

A study from Norwegian University of Science and Technology published in the "European Journal of Clinical Nutrition" on February 2007 studied 26 people with type 2 diabetes. The participants were given either fish oil or corn oil for nine weeks. After this time, the participants' insulin sensitivity and blood cholesterol were measured. The researchers found that the fish oil helped to lower insulin sensitivity and reduced blood lipoprotein levels, both of which can benefit those with diabetes. While more studies have to be conducted, the study shows promise for diabetics.

Cod Liver Oil Effectiveness Uncertainty

While the Norwegian University of Science and Technology study found fish oil supplements helped to improve diabetes blood levels, other health experts remain uncertain if fish oil helps diabetes. MedlinePlus claims that cod liver oil doesn't help to lower blood sugar levels in diabetics. Also, Dr. Barry Sears writing on The Christian Broadcasting Network reported that an analysis of 20 clinical trials found no conclusive evidence that fish oil supplements like cod liver oil affected blood sugar levels.

Additional Benefits

While cod liver oil supplements may not definitively lower blood sugar, it can help to reduce other side effects commonly associated with having diabetes. This includes lowering triglycerides levels, which are associated with obesity and diabetes. Also, cod liver oil can serve as a healthy source of fats in your diet when you have diabetes. Diabetes and heart disease also are closely linked, and fish oil supplements can help to reduce your heart disease risk.