Effects of intake of fish or fish oils on the development of diabetes

The association between fish and fish oils intake and diabetes remains largely unknown. Here we systematically reviewed published articles (clinical trials, prospective cohort studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses) about the effects of intake of fish or fish oils on the development of diabetes. An intake of fish oils seems not to affect insulin sensitivity, insulin secretion, beta-cell function or glucose tolerance. There is a considerable statistical heterogeneity in the overall summary estimates of the association between fish or fish oils consumption and the development of type 2 diabetes, which is partly explained by geographical differences. Marine n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have beneficial effects on the prevention of type 2 diabetes in Asian populations.