Although the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for health reasons is well know, a new study has found that women with type 1 diabetes who take greater amounts do not reduce their risk of heart disease .
The research, by the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, revealed that omega-3 fatty acids, which are primarily found in fish, and are useful for stopping the build-up of cholesterol in the arteries, investigated the possible beneficial effects for people suffering from type 1 diabetes, as they are at a high risk of heart disease .
The findings were part of a long-term examination of childhood onset type 1 diabetes of people who diagnosed between 1950 and 1980, which showed that 27.6 per cent of the group were diagnosed with cardiovascular disease. Omega-3 intake among the participants was generally low.
Although the incidence of heart disease was lowest in men who took the highest quantities of omega-3, women who consumed similar amounts did not have lower rates of heart disease.
Tina Costacou, lead author of the study, said “Although omega-3 is typically associated with decreased risk for cardiovascular disease, this may not be the case for women who have type 1 diabetes. Importantly, our study suggests we shouldn’t assume men and women with type 1 diabetes are the same.”

Get our free newsletters

Stay up to date with the latest news, research and breakthroughs.

You May Also Like

Conversation about doctors’ appointments occurring virtually rumbles on

More than half of GP appointments are still being delivered remotely in…

Top diabetes professor drafts risk assessment document for frontline COVID-19 staff

The health and wellbeing of frontline NHS staff has been prioritised among…

Coronavirus: UK instructed to stay at home this weekend

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said that staying at home this weekend…