Flaxseed oil and diabetes: A systemic review

Abstract

Preventing the occurrence of diabetes with nutritional interventions is a therapeutic strategy that may warrant greater research attention. Recent studies suggest that for the vegetarians other than the fish oil adding flaxseed oil to the diet may decrease insulin resistance in diabetics and pre-diabetics and help in reducing the risk of developing type 2 as well as type 1 diabetes. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are an essential source of energy found in animal and vegetable fats and oils. The general consensus is that eating the right proportion of omega-3 and omega-6 reduces inflammation in the body, the association between omega-3 Fatty Acids (FAs), type 1 and type 2 diabetes is not fully understood yet. Studies in the past suggest that omega-3 and omega-6 FA may affect the development of diabetes by modulation of insulin sensitivity in phospholipids membranes. Evidence suggests omega-6 FAs are generally protective for diabetes risk, whereas the evidence for omega-3 FAs is mixed. Based on the results of clinical trials, epidemiological investigations and experimental studies, ingestion of flaxseed oil has been suggested to have a positive impact on diabetics as well as pre diabetics. The purpose of the present review is to identify the protective effects of flaxseed oil and Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA) on diabetes.