Role of omega-3 fatty acids in metabolic syndrome

Abstract

Obesity leads to several chronic morbidities including type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, and hypertension, which are major components of the metabolic syndrome (MetS). Low-grade inflammation has been identified as a key factor in the development of MetS features affecting obese subjects. Several studies have proposed beneficial effects of the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) for the prevention and amelioration of MetS features. In this chapter, we will focus on reviewing randomized, controlled trials that evaluate the effects of supplementation with marine-derived EPA and DHA on weight loss, insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism, blood pressure, and inflammation in overweight/obese subjects with MetS characteristics. Supplementation with n-3 PUFAs may be an interesting therapy to reduce hypertriglyceridemia and hypertension, while the ability of n-3 PUFAs to promote weight loss, insulin sensitivity, and changes in cholesterol metabolism in patients with MetS remains controversial. The role of n-3 PUFAs-derived proresolving lipid mediators such as resolvins, protectins, and maresins in MetS is also discussed.