People who incorporate fish into their diets may help better protect themselves against several health complications, according to findings published in the magazine Agricultural Research.

Fish, such as salmon and tuna, are enriched with omega 3 fatty acids, which are healthy forms of fatty acids. Maintaining proper intake of omega 3 fatty acids can help prevent the development of certain types of cancer, cardiovascular disease, inflammation and obesity.

Previous studies have found that two of these nutrients prove the most beneficial – docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EHA). In an effort to better understand how these two compounds combat chronic disorders, a group of 50 mice were given supplements that were enriched with the omega 3 fatty acids over the course of 8 weeks.

In addition to containing DHA and EHA, the capsules included trans-10, cis-12 (CLA), another fatty acid.

The researchers discovered that the omega 3 fatty acids protected the mice from two health complications caused by CLA, which were insulin resistance and non-alcoholic fatty-liver disease.

While these nutrients proved beneficial, the team concluded that further research will be needed to determine if DHA can improve insulin processing in adults.

People who are looking for a natural food source containing omega 3 fatty acids should consider eating walnuts, according to a study conducted at Pennsylvania State University.