Early Intake of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Islet Autoimmunity During Childhood

Dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids after age 1 year reduced the risk for islet cell autoimmunity.

A prior retrospective study suggested that cod liver oil, which contains marine omega-3 fatty acids, reduces risk for type 1 diabetes. To determine if polyunsaturated fatty acids are associated with the development of islet autoimmunity (IA), researchers in Colorado tested, at least annually, 1770 children at genetic risk for developing type 1 diabetes for onset of IA and assessed dietary fatty acid intake every year after age 1 year.

At a mean age of 6.2 years, 58 children had developed IA (positive for at least 1 of 3 autoantibodies). In analyses adjusted for known risk factors, intake of total omega-3 fatty acid was inversely associated with risk for IA (hazard ratio, 0.45; P=0.04). Total omega-6 fatty acid, marine fatty acid, and vitamin…

Reviewing Author

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)