Diabetes: could fish oil be a solution against insulin resistance? 🐟

A Brazilian study reveals that fish oil could play a key role in reducing insulin resistance in non-obese individuals. This discovery opens new perspectives for the treatment of type 2 diabetes without overweight.

Researchers administered fish oil to non-obese rats with a condition similar to type 2 diabetes. After eight weeks, significant improvements in blood sugar levels, inflammatory markers, and lipid profiles were observed.


The study, published in Nutrients, sheds light on the mechanism by which omega-3 fatty acids influence the body's defense cells. These nutrients transform lymphocytes from a pro-inflammatory state to an anti-inflammatory state, thereby reducing insulin resistance.

The results suggest that fish oil could be beneficial for non-obese diabetic patients, representing 10 to 20% of global type 2 diabetes cases. This discovery is all the more promising as it offers a therapeutic alternative without the need for weight loss.

The researchers also noted an improvement in lipid markers, including a reduction in total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol), and triglycerides. These beneficial effects on metabolism could have significant implications for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases in diabetic patients.

Despite these encouraging results, scientists emphasize the need to conduct clinical trials in humans to confirm these observations. They aim to determine the ideal dose and the most effective type of omega-3 fatty acids for treating insulin resistance.

This study is part of a broader project aimed at better understanding the mechanisms of insulin resistance in non-obese individuals. Researchers are also exploring the role of systemic inflammation and early alterations in the immune system in the development of type 2 diabetes.

Finally, the study authors remind us that obesity is not the only risk factor for diabetes. They highlight the importance of considering other causes, such as genetic factors and alterations in intestinal transit, in the prevention and treatment of this disease.

How does fish oil influence insulin resistance?

Fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, acts by modulating the body's inflammatory response. It transforms lymphocytes, immune system cells, from a pro-inflammatory state to an anti-inflammatory state. This modulation reduces insulin resistance, thereby improving blood sugar control.

Omega-3s also influence lipid metabolism, reducing levels of total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides. These combined effects contribute to improving the metabolic health of non-obese individuals with type 2 diabetes.

This discovery paves the way for new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of diabetes, particularly for patients who are not overweight. It underscores the importance of inflammation in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

What is the role of inflammation in type 2 diabetes?

Inflammation plays a central role in the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. In obese individuals, adipose tissue releases pro-inflammatory cytokines that disrupt insulin signaling pathways.

In non-obese individuals, systemic inflammation can also contribute to insulin resistance. This inflammation is often linked to genetic alterations or dysfunctions of the immune system.

Modulating the inflammatory response, as observed with fish oil, can therefore be an effective strategy to reduce insulin resistance and improve glycemic control, regardless of weight status. This highlights the importance of targeting inflammation in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.