Omega-3 May Improve Kidney Health of Diabetics
Scientists in Hong Kong recently found that supplements of omega-3 essential fatty acids may help diabetics improve kidney health. This could be a great breakthrough for diabetes treatment because diabetics are at increased risk of kidney disease.
The double blind placebo controlled trial was published in the February 2010 issue of the journal Diabetic Medicine.
The University of Hong Kong scientists randomly assigned 97 participants with type-2 diabetes to one of two groups.
The first group was given 4 grams of fish oil daily (42% EPA and 25% DHA) and the second group received a placebo for 12 weeks.
At the end of the study, the researchers observed significant reductions in serum creatinine levels among the participants in the supplement group. Serum creatinine levels are used to measure kidney health because high levels are indicative of damage to the nephrons in the kidney.
Nephrons are the basic structural and functional units in the kidney. They perform many functions including filtration of the blood, elimination of waste and regulation of blood volume and blood pressure.
The researchers say that while further studies are necessary to confirm these findings, they are optimistic this will soon be added to the long list of health benefits associated with consuming omega-3s.
The most definitive benefits of omega-3s are related to cardiovascular health but these essential fatty acids have also been shown to reduce the risk of dementia and lower cholesterol.
Taking a high quality fish oil supplement is one great way to get your daily dose of omega-3s. You can also get more omega-3s by eating oily fish like salmon and mackerel. If you opt for a supplement, it is important to choose one that is certified for purity and potency so you can be sure it doesn't contain dangerous contaminants. Also ensure the product will deliver at least 650mg of the most important omega-3s, EPA and DHA.