We investigated the impact of diabetes on the levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an essential omega 3 fatty acid, in the retina of humans and mice. Our findings revealed that diabetic individuals had significantly lower DHA levels—40% less in peripheral regions and 25% less in the macula—compared to those without diabetes.
Additionally, we observed a reduction of retinal thickness and function in diabetic mice. Although there’s potential for dietary DHA to help with diabetic retinopathy, the current study suggests that diabetes is linked to reduced DHA and related retinal defects.
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9
Omega-3 fish oil shows promise
Omega-3 Fatty Acids Weaken Lymphocyte Inflammatory Features and Improve Glycemic Control in Nonobese Diabetic Goto-Kakizaki Rats.
We examined the impact of omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil on diabetes in nonobese Goto-Kakizaki rats. Over eight weeks, these rats received fish oil supplements, while control groups were given plain water.
Our findings revealed that fish oil significantly enhanced glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in the diabetic rats. Additionally, it shifted T lymphocyte activity towards more immune-regulating patterns, reducing inflammation and promoting better overall metabolic health.
However, the study primarily involved animal models, so further research is needed to confirm these results in humans.
Read More
9
Omega-3 lowers type 2 diabetes odds
The relationship of dietary omega-3 fatty acid and omega-6 to omega-3 ratio intake and likelihood of type 2 diabetes in a cross-sectional study.
We conducted a study analyzing dietary omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and their connection to type 2 diabetes (T2DM) risk. Using data from 8,744 participants, we found that higher omega-3 intake was linked to a 58% lower chance of developing T2DM.
In contrast, a high omega-6 to omega-3 ratio appeared to increase the likelihood of T2DM. However, dietary omega-6 on its own didn’t show a significant effect in relation to diabetes risk. These findings suggest that enhancing omega-3 intake might be beneficial in managing T2DM risk.
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Most Useful Reviews
7.5
Positive mood enhancement
17 people found this helpful
Excellent value for Omega-3! I take it for diabetes and find it boosts my mood. It's crucial for our bodies since we can't produce it ourselves. Omega-3 has numerous benefits, including reducing harmful fats in blood, aiding mental health, and supporting heart function. I recommend this supplement for anyone, especially for sports and overall well-being.
Read More
9
Eased painful periods
I've been taking Omega-3 regularly, and I’m very satisfied. It has alleviated my painful periods, and I manage my diabetes effectively with it. I trust it to fulfil its health benefits!
Read More
7.5
Improves blood pressure
117 people found this helpful
Omega-3 effectively reduces diabetes risk and enhances cognitive functions. It plays a vital role in improving blood circulation and lowering blood pressure. It's essential for my health!
We investigated the impact of diabetes on the levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an essential omega 3 fatty acid, in the retina of humans and mice. Our findings revealed that diabetic individuals had significantly lower DHA levels—40% less in peripheral regions and 25% less in the macula—compared to those without diabetes.
Additionally, we observed a reduction of retinal thickness and function in diabetic mice. Although there’s potential for dietary DHA to help with diabetic retinopathy, the current study suggests that diabetes is linked to reduced DHA and related retinal defects.
Read More
9
Omega-3 fish oil shows promise
Omega-3 Fatty Acids Weaken Lymphocyte Inflammatory Features and Improve Glycemic Control in Nonobese Diabetic Goto-Kakizaki Rats.
We examined the impact of omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil on diabetes in nonobese Goto-Kakizaki rats. Over eight weeks, these rats received fish oil supplements, while control groups were given plain water.
Our findings revealed that fish oil significantly enhanced glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in the diabetic rats. Additionally, it shifted T lymphocyte activity towards more immune-regulating patterns, reducing inflammation and promoting better overall metabolic health.
However, the study primarily involved animal models, so further research is needed to confirm these results in humans.
Read More
9
Omega-3 lowers type 2 diabetes odds
The relationship of dietary omega-3 fatty acid and omega-6 to omega-3 ratio intake and likelihood of type 2 diabetes in a cross-sectional study.
We conducted a study analyzing dietary omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and their connection to type 2 diabetes (T2DM) risk. Using data from 8,744 participants, we found that higher omega-3 intake was linked to a 58% lower chance of developing T2DM.
In contrast, a high omega-6 to omega-3 ratio appeared to increase the likelihood of T2DM. However, dietary omega-6 on its own didn’t show a significant effect in relation to diabetes risk. These findings suggest that enhancing omega-3 intake might be beneficial in managing T2DM risk.
Read More
9
DHA shows potential stroke protection
Docosahexaenoic acid protects against ischemic stroke in diabetic mice by inhibiting inflammatory responses and apoptosis.
We aimed to understand if docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) could protect diabetic mice from ischemic stroke. After administering DHA, we observed a significant reduction in brain injury and improved neurological function in these mice after stroke.
The treatment appeared to lower inflammation and cell death, as indicated by less neutrophils in the brain and changes in important proteins. Overall, DHA showed promise in managing stroke's damaging effects in diabetic models, suggesting potential benefits for clinical practice in diabetes care.
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9
Omega-3 reduces inflammation, diabetes risk
EPA and DHA inhibit LDL-induced upregulation of human adipose tissue NLRP3 inflammasome/IL-1β pathway and its association with diabetes risk factors.
We tested the effects of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, on diabetes risk factors linked to high levels of "bad" cholesterol. Over a 12-week period, individuals with elevated lipoprotein levels received daily omega-3 supplements.
We found that this intervention significantly reduced inflammation in fat tissue, improving factors like insulin function and fat metabolism. Overall, omega-3 supplementation showed promising results in lowering diabetes risk through its positive effects on inflammatory pathways.
However, while benefits were observed, the results indicated the need for further studies to fully understand the long-term impacts.
Excellent value for Omega-3! I take it for diabetes and find it boosts my mood. It's crucial for our bodies since we can't produce it ourselves. Omega-3 has numerous benefits, including reducing harmful fats in blood, aiding mental health, and supporting heart function. I recommend this supplement for anyone, especially for sports and overall well-being.
Read More
9
Eased painful periods
I've been taking Omega-3 regularly, and I’m very satisfied. It has alleviated my painful periods, and I manage my diabetes effectively with it. I trust it to fulfil its health benefits!
Read More
7.5
Improves blood pressure
117 people found this helpful
Omega-3 effectively reduces diabetes risk and enhances cognitive functions. It plays a vital role in improving blood circulation and lowering blood pressure. It's essential for my health!
Read More
6
Effective for weight loss
11 people found this helpful
This Omega-3 is fantastic! I've known about the benefits of fish oil since childhood. It helps reduce diabetes risk and promotes heart health. I personally recommend this product based on my experience—it's vital for good health. Thank you, iHerb, for such quality products!
Read More
7.5
Supports cognitive function
5 people found this helpful
Omega-3 can lower the risk of heart diseases and improve cognitive functions, which aids diabetes prevention. It’s beneficial for blood circulation, memory, and concentration. Overall, it's a great supplement for my health!
Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that helps glucose from food enter the cells, providing them with energy. When diabetes is present, it leads to elevated levels of glucose in the blood, which can cause serious health complications if left unmanaged. There are primarily two types: Type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells, and Type 2 diabetes, which is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity and lack of physical activity, leading to insulin resistance.
Managing diabetes typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, along with monitoring blood sugar levels and, in many cases, medication or insulin therapy. Education is crucial for those with diabetes to understand how their condition works and how to manage it effectively. The goal of diabetes management is to keep blood sugar levels within a target range, helping to prevent complications such as heart disease, nerve damage, and kidney failure. Regular check-ups and consultations with healthcare professionals are essential to ensure optimal care.
Omega-3 fish oil is a nutritional supplement derived from the fatty tissues of fish, particularly fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own. The most significant types of omega-3s found in fish oil are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which are known for their numerous health benefits. These include reducing inflammation, supporting heart health, and promoting brain function.
Incorporating omega-3 fish oil into your diet can be beneficial if you don’t consume enough fish regularly. Many health experts recommend oily fish as a part of a balanced diet due to their high omega-3 content. For those who find it difficult to include fish in their meals, fish oil supplements can offer a convenient alternative, providing the same essential fatty acids in concentrated form. However, it’s essential to choose high-quality supplements that are third-party tested for purity and potency to avoid contaminants such as heavy metals or other toxins that can impact health.
Recent studies suggest that Omega-3 fish oil might play a role in managing diabetes, but the findings are not entirely conclusive. Omega-3 fatty acids, primarily found in fish oil, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and potential to improve cardiovascular health. Some research indicates that they may help in reducing insulin resistance, which is a critical factor in type 2 diabetes management. However, while fish oil supplements may offer some benefits, they should not be relied upon as the sole treatment for diabetes.
It's important to note that more research is needed to establish a clear connection between Omega-3 fish oil and diabetes management. For those considering adding Omega-3 supplements to their diet, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide tailored advice based on individual health needs and conditions. Additionally, incorporating a balanced diet rich in omega-3 sources like fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds, along with regular physical activity and proper blood sugar monitoring, remains the cornerstone of diabetes management.
Based on user reviews, many people report that they begin to notice health benefits from Omega-3 supplements relatively quickly, often within a few weeks to a few months. For instance, one user mentioned an impressive drop in cholesterol levels shortly after starting the supplement, indicating noticeable results in a short time frame Read Review. Similarly, another review highlighted improvements in stress levels and physical activity post-COVID-19 recovery, suggesting benefits may manifest even more rapidly under certain circumstances Read Review.
Moreover, several users note that they take Omega-3 regularly for diabetes management and have found it aids in lower blood sugar levels. One user highlighted that taking Omega-3 capsules during meals helps with controlling blood sugar, which is crucial for managing diabetes Read Review. Although individual experiences vary, a consistent theme in the reviews is that users appreciate the seemingly swift impact of Omega-3 on their health, underscoring its potential effectiveness for those with diabetes.
Numerous studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids, particularly those derived from fish oil, may offer potential benefits for managing diabetes and related complications. For instance, research involving nonobese diabetic rats showed that fish oil significantly enhanced glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity while promoting better metabolic health [2]. Similarly, another study indicated that higher omega-3 consumption was associated with lower blood glucose levels and a decreased diabetes prevalence among older adults [3]. These findings highlight the possibility that omega-3s can support metabolic processes that are often impaired in diabetes.
Moreover, specific omega-3 fatty acids, like docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have shown promise in reducing painful neuropathy and various inflammation markers in diabetic patients [4][5]. A comprehensive study found that those using fish oil experienced lower rates of chronic kidney disease, a common complication for those with diabetes [16]. While the results are encouraging, it's important to note that many studies have been conducted using animal models or require further research to confirm effects in humans. Overall, incorporating omega-3 supplements may have the potential to assist in diabetes management, but caution and further investigation are recommended.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report significant improvements in various health symptoms attributed to Omega-3 supplementation. Several users specifically mention that Omega-3 has been beneficial in managing diabetes, with one user noting it as a crucial aid for controlling blood sugar levels, especially when taken alongside meals Read Review. Others have highlighted enhancements in mental well-being, reporting boosts in mood and reductions in stress, particularly after recovering from conditions like COVID-19 Read Review.
Moreover, users have noticed physical health benefits, including reduced pain during menstrual cycles Read Review and improvements in cholesterol levels shortly after commencing the supplement Read Review. Other reported advantages include lower blood pressure, enhanced cognitive function, and better overall circulation, all of which are common themes in the feedback Read Review. While such improvements seem consistent among many users, it's essential to acknowledge that individual results may vary.
Users have reported a generally positive experience when combining Omega-3 supplements with other supplements for diabetes management. Many individuals note that Omega-3 plays a significant role in lowering blood sugar levels, especially when taken during meals, which is crucial for effective diabetes control Read Review. One user mentioned that they take Omega-3 along with vitamin D3, which they found beneficial for memory improvement and normalizing metabolic processes, highlighting the potential synergy between these supplements Read Review.
Additionally, users have shared their experiences of improved health outcomes when integrating Omega-3 with other dietary supplements, such as taurine and vitamin C. This combination reportedly assists with overall wellness and diabetes prevention Read Review. While there were some cautionary notes about possible interactions with diabetes medications, users emphasized the importance of consulting healthcare providers before starting new supplement routines Read Review. Overall, the feedback suggests that users appreciate the complementary effects of Omega-3 and other supplements in managing diabetes and enhancing their overall health.
Users report varying experiences with Omega-3 Fish Oil in managing diabetes. Several reviewers emphasize the supplement's role in reducing diabetes risk and improving overall health. For instance, one user highlighted the effect of taking two capsules during meals to help control blood sugar levels, noting its importance for those with diabetes Read Review. Others recommend taking Omega-3 regularly, with some opting to take it every other day Read Review. A user mentioned taking about 8 soft gels a day to achieve an optimal DHA level, suggesting a higher intake for more pronounced effects Read Review.
Overall, review data indicates that users find Omega-3 beneficial for managing diabetes and suggest individualized dosages based on personal health goals and responses. While many professionals recommend a general intake of 1,000 mg to 2,000 mg of EPA and DHA combined per day, users advocate for personal experimentation to discover the right dosage for their needs and circumstances, particularly as Omega-3 may interact with diabetes medications Read Review. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
6
Improved cholesterol levels
4 people found this helpful
I drink Omega-3 for my diabetes, and my cholesterol has impressively dropped in a short time. It's essential for maintaining good health.
7.5
Reduces stress susceptibility
1 people found this helpful
After recovering from COVID-19, I take Omega-3 for diabetes management, and it notably improved my stress levels and physical activity. It's beneficial for maintaining heart health and good cholesterol levels.
7.5
Blood sugar control
My blood sugar has been above standard recently, and I've discovered that Omega-3 can help lower it. Taking two Omega-3 capsules during meals aids in controlling blood sugar, which is essential for those with diabetes. It also alleviates inflammation post-exercise, making it beneficial for fitness enthusiasts.
9
Eased painful periods
I've been taking Omega-3 regularly, and I’m very satisfied. It has alleviated my painful periods, and I manage my diabetes effectively with it. I trust it to fulfil its health benefits!
7.5
Improves blood pressure
117 people found this helpful
Omega-3 effectively reduces diabetes risk and enhances cognitive functions. It plays a vital role in improving blood circulation and lowering blood pressure. It's essential for my health!
7.5
Promotes overall wellness
2 people found this helpful
Omega-3 has numerous health benefits and is crucial for people with diabetes. I take it every other day alongside vitamin D3. It helps improve memory and normalise metabolic processes. Highly recommend!
7.5
Preventive benefits
Omega-3 reduces the risk of heart disease, improves circulation, and enhances brain function, which aids memory and concentration. I take it alongside taurine, vitamin C, and others. After six months, I noted fewer allergy symptoms. I will continue this for overall wellness and diabetes prevention.
6
Cognitive improvement
5 people found this helpful
This is one of my top 10 Omega-3 fish oils. It has a higher EPA to DHA concentration than other brands, resulting in less fishy odour. It's derived from purified anchovies, proving safe and free from mercury and unsafe PCB levels. I’ll give it a 4-star rating as a budget-friendly option for newcomers to fish oils. I take about 8 soft gels a day to achieve 1000 DHA. After supplementing, I noticed improvements in energy and motivation. Fish oil may lower blood pressure and interact with diabetes medications, so consult your doctor first.
9
Omega-3 fish oil shows promise
Omega-3 Fatty Acids Weaken Lymphocyte Inflammatory Features and Improve Glycemic Control in Nonobese Diabetic Goto-Kakizaki Rats.
We examined the impact of omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil on diabetes in nonobese Goto-Kakizaki rats. Over eight weeks, these rats received fish oil supplements, while control groups were given plain water.
Our findings revealed that fish oil significantly enhanced glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in the diabetic rats. Additionally, it shifted T lymphocyte activity towards more immune-regulating patterns, reducing inflammation and promoting better overall metabolic health.
However, the study primarily involved animal models, so further research is needed to confirm these results in humans.
7
PUFAs linked to diabetes risk
Dietary Intake of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Is Associated with Blood Glucose and Diabetes in Community-Dwelling Older Adults.
We examined the connection between polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and diabetes risk among older Italians in a cross-sectional study. By analyzing data from over 4,400 participants aged 65 and up, we found that higher consumption of omega-3s—especially EPA and DHA—was linked to lower blood glucose levels and decreased diabetes prevalence. Interestingly, while these fats showed beneficial effects, higher body mass index (BMI) values were associated with some omega-6 fats. Overall, our findings suggest dietary PUFAs may play a role in managing diabetes in older adults.
7
DHA supplementation aids diabetic neuropathy
Dietary Docosahexaenoic Acid-Rich Supplementation Decreases Neurotoxic Lipid Mediators in Participants with Type 2 Diabetes and Neuropathic Pain.
We investigated whether a supplement rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) could help reduce harmful lipids in individuals with type 2 diabetes and painful neuropathy. Our study involved 40 participants who took DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) daily while attending educational sessions. After three months, we found significant reductions in neurotoxic lipids and an improvement in pain symptoms. This suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial in managing diabetic neuropathy, contributing to better overall health.
8
Omega-3 impacts inflammation biomarkers
Biomarkers of oxidation, inflammation and intestinal permeability in persons with diabetes mellitus with parenteral nutrition: A multicenter randomized trial.
We examined how various parenteral nutrition (PN) lipid formulas influenced inflammation and intestinal permeability in patients with type 2 diabetes.
In our study involving 94 patients, those receiving omega-3 enriched PN showed a significant decrease in several proinflammatory cytokines, indicating a potential benefit for managing inflammation.
However, while different lipid types affected biomarkers differently, the overall results underscore the importance of lipid composition in PN for diabetic individuals.
8
Fish oil may reduce CKD risk
Fish oil supplementation in relation to the risk of chronic kidney disease among patients with diabetes.
We explored whether fish oil supplements could help reduce the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) among diabetic patients. In a large study of nearly 25,000 individuals, we found that those using fish oil experienced significantly lower CKD rates over an extended follow-up period.
Remarkably, their risk was delayed by almost three years compared to those not using fish oil. The positive outcomes seemed linked to improvements in important health markers, like HbA1c and HDL cholesterol. This suggests promoting fish oil supplementation could be beneficial in managing diabetes-related complications.
References
Sugasini D, Yalagala PCR, Park JC, Ma G, Farooq Z, et al. Retinal Docosahexaenoic Acid Is Significantly Reduced in Diabetic Humans and Mice: Possible Relationship to Diabetic Retinopathy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2024;65:39. 10.1167/iovs.65.14.39
Lobato TB, Santos ESS, Iser-Bem PN, Falcão HS, Gimenes GM, et al. Omega-3 Fatty Acids Weaken Lymphocyte Inflammatory Features and Improve Glycemic Control in Nonobese Diabetic Goto-Kakizaki Rats. Nutrients. 2024;16. 10.3390/nu16234106
Coelho-Júnior HJ, Álvarez-Bustos A, Picca A, Calvani R, Rodriguez-Mañas L, et al. Dietary Intake of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Is Associated with Blood Glucose and Diabetes in Community-Dwelling Older Adults. Nutrients. 2024;16. 10.3390/nu16234087
Durán AM, Zamora F, De León M. Dietary Docosahexaenoic Acid-Rich Supplementation Decreases Neurotoxic Lipid Mediators in Participants with Type 2 Diabetes and Neuropathic Pain. Nutrients. 2024;16. 10.3390/nu16234025
Soria-Utrilla V, Sasso CV, Romero-Zerbo SY, Adarve-Castro A, López-Urdiales R, et al. Biomarkers of oxidation, inflammation and intestinal permeability in persons with diabetes mellitus with parenteral nutrition: A multicenter randomized trial. Clin Nutr. 2025;44:155. 10.1016/j.clnu.2024.11.044
You Y, Sarkar S, Deiter C, Elliott EC, Nicora CD, et al. Reduction of Chemokine CXCL9 Expression by Omega-3 Fatty Acids via ADP-Ribosylhydrolase ARH3 in MIN6 Insulin-Producing Cells. Proteomics. 2025;25:e202400053. 10.1002/pmic.202400053
Shakiba E, Pasdar Y, Asoudeh F, Najafi F, Saber A, et al. The relationship of dietary omega-3 fatty acid and omega-6 to omega-3 ratio intake and likelihood of type 2 diabetes in a cross-sectional study. BMC Endocr Disord. 2024;24:259. 10.1186/s12902-024-01787-y
Liu C, Guo J, Guan L, Li C, Hu X, et al. Docosahexaenoic acid protects against ischemic stroke in diabetic mice by inhibiting inflammatory responses and apoptosis. Exp Neurol. 2025;385:115075. 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.115075
Bayat M, Koohpeyma F, Montazeri-Najafabady N, Dabbaghmanesh MH, Asmarian N, et al. The effects of modest intake of soy milk enriched with Lactobacillus casei and omega-3 on the testis parameters in diabetic rats: a stereological study. Int Urol Nephrol. 2025;57:1123. 10.1007/s11255-024-04243-x
Xia J, Yin S, Yu J, Wang J, Jin X, et al. Improvement in Glycolipid Metabolism Parameters After Supplementing Fish Oil-Derived Omega-3 Fatty Acids Is Associated with Gut Microbiota and Lipid Metabolites in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Nutrients. 2024;16. 10.3390/nu16213755
Lamantia V, Bissonnette S, Beaudry M, Cyr Y, Rosiers CD, et al. EPA and DHA inhibit LDL-induced upregulation of human adipose tissue NLRP3 inflammasome/IL-1β pathway and its association with diabetes risk factors. Sci Rep. 2024;14:27146. 10.1038/s41598-024-73672-6
Li J, Nan W, Huang X, Meng H, Wang S, et al. Eicosapentaenoic acid induces macrophage Mox polarization to prevent diabetic cardiomyopathy. EMBO Rep. 2024;25:5507. 10.1038/s44319-024-00271-x
Schuchardt JP, Hahn A, Greupner T, Tintle NL, Westra J, et al. Higher docosahexaenoic acid proportions in blood are inversely associated with the prevalence of prediabetes: Evidence from the UK Biobank. Nutr Res. 2024;131:62. 10.1016/j.nutres.2024.09.009
Rimmen EV, Mjøs SA, Søfteland E, Gudbrandsen OA. Intake of herring oil, but not of anchovy oil, resulted in a lower serum cholesterol concentration in male Zucker Diabetic Sprague Dawley rats. Br J Nutr. 2024;132:547. 10.1017/S0007114524001454
Muzammil K, Khaleel AQ, Merza MS, Kyada A, Ariffin IA, et al. The effects of ω-3 fatty acids on inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat. 2024;175:106887. 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2024.106887
Ao Y, Ye H, Liu X, Li Y, Liu H, et al. Fish oil supplementation in relation to the risk of chronic kidney disease among patients with diabetes. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2024;26:5283. 10.1111/dom.15880