Taking fish oil supplements, which are a high source of omega-3 fatty acids, may reduce the risk of developing diabetes and inflammation, according to findings published in the journal Cell. This has been determined because molecules produced by omega-3s combat prediabetic symptoms and chronic inflammatory complications.

During a recent trial, a team of investigators from the University of California in San Diego fed mice high-fat diets that did and did not contain omega-3s. The investigators discovered that those given the nutrient-based foods showed signs of reduced inflammation and were able to better process insulin.

While omega-3s protect against these health complications, the researchers suggest that further research is necessary to find if high amounts of fish oil may cause negative results. Prior studies have shown that fish oil supplements can increase the risk of bleeding and stroke.

Jerrold Olefsky, lead author of the trial, stated that “our work shows how fish oils safely do this, and suggests a possible way to treat the serious problems of inflammation in obesity and in conditions like diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease through simple dietary supplementation.”

In addition to preventing these health problems, taking fish oil supplements can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of suffering from irregular heartbeats, according to the American Heart Association (AHA).