Type 1 Diabetics Benefit from Omega 3s
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) is an autoimmune disease where the body's own immune system attacks and destroys the beta cells in the pancreas, resulting in the cessation of insulin production. This lack of insulin disrupts glucose levels in the bloodstream, impacting various aspects of overall health.
The development and progression of T1D are influenced by a combination of dietary factors, environmental factors, and genetics. Although genetics alone doesn't guarantee disease onset, it does increase the susceptibility to triggering factors in the environment. Consequently, nutrition has been extensively studied and appears to play a pivotal role in both prevention and overall well-being.
One essential nutrient that has garnered attention is Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These fats have shown potential benefits for individuals with type 1 diabetes.
Regarding prevention, research has revealed that Omega 3s can be significant. Studies on children who were given cod liver oil (an omega-3-rich oil) during infancy demonstrated a decreased risk of developing diabetes (5). Furthermore, managing inflammation during the early stages of T1D through increased Omega 3 intake and reduced Omega 6 intake (inflammatory fatty acids) has been shown to decrease the risk of developing T1D in genetically susceptible children (4).
Individuals with T1D are more prone to comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease and neuropathy. The imbalance of glucose, insulin, and the immune system negatively impacts oxidative stress, inflammation, and vascular health. Fortunately, Omega 3s have been found to be beneficial in addressing these issues by reducing inflammation, balancing oxidative stress, enhancing the immune response, and improving vascular and endothelial function (2).
Neuropathy, which affects 50% of people with diabetes, occurs as a result of glucose and insulin imbalances, leading to nerve damage (1). Supplementation with Omega 3 DHA and EPA has been proven to improve corneal nerve function in patients with diabetic neuropathy by promoting the regeneration of nerve fibers (1). Moreover, diabetics generally have lower blood levels of DHA than non-diabetics, making it crucial to restore adequate levels of DHA to support nerve regeneration. A study by Lewis (2021) also found that lower blood serum levels of DHA were associated with diabetic distal-symmetric polyneuropathy (DSP), and increasing DHA levels allowed for greater nerve regeneration.
By considering the potential benefits of Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, we may open new avenues for addressing T1D and its associated complications, ultimately improving the quality of life for those living with the condition.
References:
1. Britten-Jones, A. C., Kamel, J. T., & Roberts, L. J. (2021, August 1). Investigating the Neuroprotective Effect of Oral Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation in Type 1 Diabetes (nPROOFS1): A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. Diabetes, 70(8), 1794.
2. Khorshidi, M., Sayyari, A., Olang, B., Alaei, M. R., Shab-Bidar, S., Khalili, M., Salehi, M., & Aryaeian, N. (2021). Study protocol of a randomized controlled clinical trial investigating the effects of omega-3 supplementation on endothelial function, vascular structure, and metabolic parameters in adolescents with type 1 diabetes. Trials, 22(1). https://doi-org.uws.idm.oclc.org/10.1186/s13063-021-05930-1
3. Lewis, E. J. H., Lovblom, L. E., Cisbani, G., Chen, D. K., Bazinet, R. P., Wolever, T. M. S., Perkins, B. A., & Bril, V. (2021). Baseline omega-3 level is associated with nerve regeneration following 12-months of omega-3 nutrition therapy in patients with type 1 diabetes. Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications, 35(3). https://doi-org.uws.idm.oclc.org/10.1016/j.jdiacomp.2020.107798
4. Norris, J. M., Yin, X., Lamb, M. M., Barriga, K., Seifert, J., Hoffman, M., Orton, H. D., Barón, A. E., Clare-Salzler, M., Chase, H. P., Szabo, N. J., Erlich, H., Eisenbarth, G. S., & Rewers, M. (2007). Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intake and islet autoimmunity in children at increased risk for type 1 diabetes. JAMA, 298(12), 1420–1428. https://doi-org.uws.idm.oclc.org/10.1001/jama.298.12.1420
5. Stene, L. C., & Joner, G. (2004). Use of cod liver oil during the first year of life is associated with lower risk of childhood-onset type 1 diabetes: a large, population-based, case-control study. Alternative Medicine Review, 9(1), 99.
