Omega-3s From Plants And Marine Animals Seem To Reduce Risk Of Type 2 Diabetes

Studies conducted in China and the U.S. comparing the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids derived from different sources have found that increased levels of any form of omega-3 were associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. Scientists compared omega-3s from plants (alpha-linoleic acid, or ALA) and marine animals. The two Chinese studies came to different conclusions: one said only plant-derived omega-3s reduced diabetes risk, and the other said only marine-derived omega-3s reduced the risk. The U.S. study, however, found that both forms reduced diabetes risk. The researchers said that evidence suggests that both forms are protective, but more studies are needed to draw definitive conclusions.