Why Is Fish Good for People with Diabetes?

In a recent study, it was found that the consumption of fish twice a week could reduce the risk of kidney disease among diabetics.

While definitive results of the effects on diabetes of eating fish are inconclusive, there are indications that diabetics who consume fish may decrease their level of triglycerides and increase HDL, the good cholesterol.

What is significant is that eating fish can reduce protein and fat in the blood, as well as lower blood pressure. Why is this important? When protein is found in the urine, it is an indicator for the onset of kidney disease.

Furthermore, it is not recommended that diabetics consume fish oil supplements since there is no evidence to suggest that it is helpful. It can adversely affect a diabetic who is taking other medications.

On the other hand, there are strong recommendations that diabetics consume baked fish at least twice a week. Again, this can help reduce blood pressure and the onset of kidney disease.

It has also been suggested that fish can have a positive effect on insulin resistance in diabetics. In addition, the Omega 3 fatty acids in fish may prevent the risk of heart disease and arrhythmia that is a serious problem among diabetes patients.

Overall, however, an appropriate diet that includes fish combined with a daily exercise routine, can only serve to help diabetes patients.

Finally, the American Diabetes Association has recommended that diabetics substitute saturated fats with monounsaturated fats, which has been shown to reduce triglyceride levels. Thus, a diet containing Omega 3 fatty acids is called for.

Moreover, Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish oils can significantly reduce the risk of coronary heart disease among women.