Effects of n-3 fatty acids on macro- and microvascular function in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Study answer

What this study found

Six weeks of purified omega-3 fatty acids improved postprandial vascular function compared with placebo, while fasting vascular function was unchanged. The time-by-treatment interaction favored n-3 fatty acids for brachial FMD (P = 0.03) and microvascular reactive hyperemia (P = 0.04). Postprandial FMD declined less with n-3 fatty acids, with FMD-AUC 22.31 ± 1.83 versus 28.24 ± 2.20 with placebo, and the postprandial RH response was also better preserved. No adverse events were reported.

Study & population

Randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Bochum, Germany.

Intervention

Participants received 2 oral gel capsules daily for 6 weeks of omega-3 acid ethyl esters (Omacor).

Key limitation

The trial was small, short term, and conducted in a selected group of adults with type 2 diabetes without major cardiovascular disease or advanced complications, which limits generalizability.

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Original abstract