Omega-3 fatty acids – found in certain fish as well as in many nutritional supplements – may provide protection to the liver, new research suggests.

The study focused on the effect of omega-3 in obese people. It found that the fatty acids protect the liver from damage cause by insulin resistance.

Conducted at the University of Barcelona, the research identified two lipids – protectins and resolvins – that could reduce the rate of liver complications sometimes seen in obese people.

As part of the study, the scientists studied four groups of obese, diabetic mice. One group consumed an omega-3-rich diet, the second ate a control diet, a third was given a specific acid and the fourth consumed the lipid resolvin.

At the end of five weeks, the omega-3 group was shown to have reduced hepatic inflammation and boosted their tolerance to insulin.

“Our study shows for the first time that lipids called protectins and resolvins derived from omega-3 fatty acids can actually reduce the instance of liver complications, such as hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance, in obese people,” commented researcher Joan Claria.

In separate studies, omega-3s have been shown to effectively lower triglycerides, a fat that is found in the bloodstream.