Polyunsaturated fatty acids and metabolic health: novel insights

Abstract

Purpose of reviewThis review aims to discuss the potential roles of omega-3 (v-3) and omega-6 (v-6) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in the prevention and treatment of metabolic diseases, to provide the latest evidence from epidemiological and clinical studies, and to highlight novel insights into this field. Recent findingsHigher dietary or circulating v-3 PUFA levels are related to a lower risk of metabolic syndrome. Novel findings in obesity indicate higher proportions of v-6 and v-3 PUFAs, a modulated oxylipin profile and an altered transcriptome in subcutaneous white adipose tissue, that seem resistant to the effects of v-3 PUFAs compared with what occurs in normal weight individuals. v-3 PUFAs may improve the blood lipid profile and glycemic outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and reduce liver fat in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); the findings of several recent meta-analyses support these effects. Genetic background affects inter-individual variability in the insulin sensitivity response to v-3 PUFA supplementation. v-3 PUFAs have prebiotic effects, altering the gut microbiota. SummaryAlthough evidence for health benefits of v-3 PUFAs is strong, recent findings suggest a more personalized approach to v-3 PUFA intake for individuals at high risk for metabolic diseases.

Effect of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) consumption on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials

“…The consumption of sesame may reduce plasma glucose by increasing insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity, possibly through the action of PUFAs and MUFAs, as reported by previous studies (Djuricic & Calder, 2022;Hadi et al, 2022;Imamura et al, 2016;Telle-Hansen et al, 2019). MUFAs can ameliorate glycemic tolerance through an increase in the secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1 (Rocca et al, 2001).…”

The role of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the intensive care unit

“…Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have numerous biological actions [1,2 ▪ –4 ▪ ] that suggest they could have an important role in clinical nutrition support. The main bioactive omega-3 PUFAs are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA); EPA and DHA are found naturally in fish oil.…”

Editorial: Lipids to support physiology and function: both quantity and quality are important

“…Although much of the emphasis of fatty acid research remains on n-3 PUFAs, especially EPA and DHA, other fatty acids, including n-6 PUFAs, also have roles relevant to human physiology and health [46]. These include linoleic acid as a component of skin ceramides and linoleic and arachidonic acids as precursors of bioactive oxylipins involved in physiology.…”