Although fish oil has a number of beneficial effects on your health, there is some evidence that it can increase blood sugar levels. This increase in blood sugar shouldn't pose any risk of long-term complications. Talk to your doctor before taking fish oil supplements.
Fish Oil
Fish oil is a supplement that is derived from certain fish, such as mackerel, lake trout and cod, that are rich in a type of fat known as omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the function of your brain and immune system and can help reduce inflammation. Fish oil is also used to reduce your risk of heart disease because it reduces your levels of a type of lipid known as triglycerides.
Fish Oil and Blood Glucose
Taking fish oil supplements may result in an increase in blood glucose levels, particularly if you have type 2 diabetes. One early study, published in a 1989 issue of "Diabetes," found that taking fish oil supplements increased fasting blood glucose by an average of 14 percent. High blood glucose levels are dangerous for diabetics because it increases their risk of heart disease, kidney problems, nerve damage and loss of vision.
Controversy
Although fish oil may cause your blood sugar levels to be temporarily elevated, it is not clear if this actually will worsen your diabetes. According to MayoClinic.com, use of fish oil does not appear to have any long-term impact on blood glucose control in diabetics, such as changes in hemoglobin A1c levels. In addition, fish oil may help protect diabetics from heart disease, one of the major complications of diabetes.
Considerations
Talk to your doctor before taking fish oil, particularly if you have diabetes. If you have poor blood sugar control, your doctor may recommend that you optimize your diabetes treatments before adding other supplements, such as fish oil, to your regimen. In addition, high doses of fish oil may make it hard for your blood to clot, increasing your risk of bleeding or bruising easily.
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