Diabetes and omega 3 fatty acids

I am a type 2 diabetic. Should I be taking omega 3 fatty acids.

Millions of people take omega 3 fatty acids to prevent illness and maintain good health. The manufacturers of these health supplements also push these products for diabetic patients to help reduce the risk of heart disease or stroke.

For the past few years, a lot of data has been published about the benefits of omega 3 fatty in non-diabetic patients. However, there is a dearth of data on the benefits of these supplements in type 2 diabetics.   

Now a large study reveals that taking omega 3 fatty acids by type 2 diabetic patients does not lower the risk of a stroke or heart attack

In the past, there have been many epidemiological studies that have shown a link between people who eat fish or take omega 3 fatty acids and a lowered risk of heart disease.  However, most of the previous studies were not randomized and many were sponsored by the manufacturer of the health supplement.

So what should consumers do?

In my opinion, omega 3 fatty acids are relatively safe and there is no harm in taking them. While these supplements can lower lipids, their overall clinical benefits appear to exaggerated.

It should be understood that reliance on one health supplement or a drug is not the best way to lower risk of heart disease or stroke. To maintain good overall health, people should start to eat healthy, watch their weight, discontinue smoking and exercise regularly.