Omega-3 fatty acids: Potential in type 1 diabetes and the cognitive development of children
by Health Blog Editors
As of: July 10, 2025
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids and are essential for numerous functions in the human body. In recent years, their effects have been intensively studied, particularly with regard to anti-inflammatory processes, cognitive development, and metabolic health – with promising results, including in the context of type 1 diabetes and in children.
Effect on type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which insulin-producing beta cells are destroyed. Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), have immunomodulatory effects. A publication in the journal Diabetes describes how an adequate supply of omega-3 fatty acids can mitigate inflammatory reactions in type 1 diabetics:
- Calder PC et al. (2020). Immunomodulatory effects of omega-3 fatty acids. Diabetes.
Link to the study (PubMed)
In addition, a prospective cohort study showed that children with higher omega-3 levels had a reduced risk of developing autoantibodies – an early indicator of type 1 diabetes:
- Norris JM et al. (2007). Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intake and islet autoimmunity in children at increased risk for type 1 diabetes. JAMA. 298(12):1420–1428.
DOI: 10.1001/jama.298.12.1420
https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.298.12.1420
Cognitive development in children
DHA is a major component of neuronal cell membranes. Numerous studies, including the British DOLAB study, show that children supplemented with omega-3 showed significantly improved reading, memory, and concentration scores:
- Richardson AJ et al. (2012). The DOLAB study: a randomized controlled trial of DHA supplementation for children with reading, memory and behavior problems. PLoS ONE, 7(9):e43909.
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0043909
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0043909
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) also confirms:
“DHA contributes to normal brain and vision development in children.”
- EFSA Scientific Opinion (2009).
https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.2903/j.efsa.2009.1007
Prevention of consequential damage
In the long term, adequate omega-3 intake can reduce inflammation in the body and thus positively influence diabetic complications such as nephropathy, retinopathy, or neuropathy. A meta-analysis shows that omega-3 supplementation is associated with improved endothelial function in diabetics:
- Rombaldi Bernardi J et al. (2017). Effects of omega-3 fatty acids on endothelial function in humans: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clinical Nutrition. 36(4):720–730.
DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2016.06.014
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnu.2016.06.014
Conclusion
Omega-3 fatty acids offer great health potential, particularly in chronic inflammatory diseases such as type 1 diabetes and for neurodevelopment in children.
Zinzino is more than just a dietary supplement with Omega 3 fatty acids
Our body cells need a healthy balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. You can measure this balance with a simple test. It's as easy as a blood sugar test: you place a drop of blood on the Zinzino Test , register online, and after about 14 days, you'll receive an anonymous evaluation by email, along with specific steps you can take to optimize your blood lipid composition to best support your body.
Click here to learn more
Zinzino BalanceOil is also available for children with a tutti-frutti flavor, without any fishy aftertaste. One teaspoon a day is enough; it can be easily mixed into juice or a shake. Click here for Zinzino's Omega-3 and Omega-6 Balance Oil for children.
For adults there is the BalanceOil in Orange Lemon Mint flavor .
Legal Notice (Disclaimer)
This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Dietary supplements should not be taken without consulting a physician, especially if you have a chronic condition such as diabetes. No liability is assumed for the accuracy of this information.
