Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of dietary lipids that includes eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid and alpha-linolenic acid. Although there is no evidence that consuming omega-3 fatty acids can lower your insulin levels, these lipids may provide beneficial effects that improve the way your body regulates blood sugar levels, an important consideration for people with diabetes and hypoglycemia. Talk to your doctor before taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements to treat any medical condition.
Glucose Levels
Hypoglycemia is a condition that causes low levels of sugar in your bloodstream. This condition is the opposite of hyperglycemia, one of the major symptoms of diabetes. People with diabetes may experience hypoglycemia from taking too much insulin, a situation that causes blood sugar levels to fall below the optimal levels.
Insulin
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, consuming omega-3 fatty acid supplements might cause an increase in the level of glucose within your bloodstream. Even though the fatty acids don't lower the amount of insulin in your body, the increase in glucose causes an imbalance that requires an additional amount of insulin to metabolize the excess amount of glucose. Taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements can increase your need for blood-sugar-lowering medications, including insulin.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
According to Medline Plus, alpha-linolenic acid may help improve the way your cells respond to insulin, making them more sensitive to this hormone. Research regarding this effect is inconclusive and ongoing, however. Current research fails to prove that omega-3 fatty acids can directly lower your risk of developing diabetes, although healthy eating habits may play a role in preventing this disease.
Precautions
According to MayoClinic.com, the noted increase in glucose levels seems to be slight and is unlikely to cause long-term effects. Even though most people can safely consume food items that contain omega-3 fatty acids, you should seek prior approval from your doctor before you take any kind of nutritional supplement, especially if you have a serious condition, such as diabetes or hypoglycemia. Omega-3 fatty acids can interact with certain medications including cholesterol-lowering drugs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and blood-thinning medications. Using fish oil to supplement your intake of omega-3 fatty acids may cause bloating, heartburn and indigestion, as well as leave you with a fishy aftertaste in your mouth.
References
- MedlinePlus; Omega-3 Fats Linked to Lower Diabetes Risk; Amy Norton; June 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Possible Interactions...; Ernest B. Hawkins; May 2007
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Hypoglycemia; Steven D. Ehrlich; February 2010
- MayoClinic.com; Omega-3 Fatty Acids...; July 2011
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