High Cholesterol, High Triglycerides and Diabetes

If you have diabetes, high cholesterol and high triglycerides, pay attention.  A diet abundant in fish, borage and flax seed oils is associated with lower rates of diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.  Such a diet increases decreases insulin resistance, lowers the risk of type II diabetes and protects against diabetic neuropathy.  This is because flax seed oil is a plentiful source of an essential fatty acid called alpha linolenic acid (ALA).  Fish oil is rich in other Omega 3 fatty acids called EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).  DHA nurtures the brain and has been shown to improve memory and brain function.

Most of the research on EPA has involved its effects on the prevention of heart disease.  This is important for diabetics, for as you know, this condition dramatically increases the risk of heart disease.  EPA works on a number of fronts to enhance cardiovascular health.  First, because it promotes the burning of fats in the liver, it lowers cholesterol and triglycerides.  This is especially important for diabetics, because excess fats in the bloodstream interfere with insulin sensitivity.  When triglycerides are elevated, blood sugar levels often go up as well.  Therefore, it is a priority for any diabetic with elevated cholesterol and triglycerides to get them down into normal range. Second, EPA reduces dangerous blood clots that may lead to heart attack or stroke.

The most important of the Omega 6 fatty acids for the diabetic is gamma linolenic acid (GLA). Diabetics are frequently deficient in GLA, because they often have problems converting dietary fats into GLA.  GLA has been found to be an effective therapy for diabetic neuropathy, which is caused by an inflammation and deterioration of the peripheral nerves, usually in the legs and feet.  Characterized by numbness, tingling and sometimes severe pain, diabetic peripheral neuropathy gradually destroys the nerves, and the legs become more susceptible ulcerative sores and infection.

A blend of these Omega fatty acids is essential for diabetics or for anyone who wants to safeguard their health. Flourish has taken the guesswork out of consuming the proper balance of these nutrients.  Omega-Plex is our exclusive all-in-one essential fatty acid product.  This supplement contains the omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids from the most desired sources of fish, borage and flax seed oils in a convenient 1200 mg softgel capsule.  The oils in Omega-Plex are cold-pressed and solvent free with vitamin E added to prevent oxidation.  For general supplementation, take 1 to 4 softgels per day.  (It is preferable to take Omega-Plex with meals.)  To achieve the intake recommended for diabetic health, take 4 to 6 softgels per day.