All studies
Enrolling by invitationNAINTERVENTIONAL

Free Fatty Acid Effects In Type 2 Diabetes

This study is investigating whether omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in oily fish and flaxseed, can help people with type 2 diabetes and existing heart conditions. While omega-3s are known to be good for heart health, we don't know as much about their effects on blood sugar control in people with both conditions. Researchers hope to find out if omega-3s can improve blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation, which are both crucial for managing type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Since omega-3s are natural and available as supplements, this study aims to see if they could be a safe way to slow down the progression of type 2 diabetes and lower the risk of heart problems.

At a glance

Status
Enrolling by invitation
Phase
NA
Sponsor
University of Ulster
Enrolment target
60
Start
01 Jul 2026
Estimated completion
01 Feb 2027

What is this study about?

This study is about understanding how special fats called omega-3 fatty acids might help people who have both type 2 diabetes and heart problems. You might already know that omega-3s are found in foods like oily fish and sometimes taken as supplements. They are often talked about for their benefits to heart health.

Type 2 diabetes means your body has trouble controlling blood sugar, and this can also affect your heart. This study wants to find out if taking omega-3s could help lower blood sugar and reduce inflammation, which are important steps in managing both type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Because omega-3s are natural and already widely used, they could be a safe way to help people with these conditions.

The main goal of this research is to see if omega-3 fatty acids can slow down how type 2 diabetes progresses and reduce the chances of developing more serious heart issues. If successful, this could offer a simple addition to how people manage their health.

Key takeaways

  • Exploring if natural omega-3 fats can help people with type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
  • Aims to see if omega-3s can improve blood sugar and reduce heart disease risk.
  • Looks at a potentially safe and natural option for managing these conditions.
  • Open to adults over 18 with type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes, and possibly heart disease.
  • Not suitable for individuals with severe heart conditions or those on most other diabetes medications.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be over 18 years old. You should have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes (meaning your blood sugar is a bit high but not yet full diabetes). Your doctor might be managing your condition with diet, or you might be taking a medication called metformin. You could also have a history of heart disease.

There are some reasons why you couldn't join. For example, if you have severe or unstable heart problems, or if you're taking other diabetes medications apart from metformin. Also, if you've had major surgery recently or have one planned during the study, or if you have medical devices like a pacemaker, you won't be able to participate. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, those with an active infection, or people taking part in another weight loss study also can't join.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

  1. Are you 18 years old or older?
  2. Do you have type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes?
  3. Is your diabetes managed by diet or metformin only?
  4. Are you not currently pregnant or breastfeeding?
  5. Do you not have severe or unstable heart problems?
  6. Are you not involved in another weight-loss study?
Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The detailed information about what taking part involves, such as the number of visits, specific assessments, which medication you would receive (omega-3 fatty acids, semaglutide 0.25 mg, or a dummy pill), follow-up procedures, and the total duration of the study, is not provided in this summary. If you are interested in participating, the research team would explain these details thoroughly, including any necessary hospital visits, examinations, or tests.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in any study has possible benefits and risks. You might benefit from closer monitoring of your health or contribute to valuable research that could help others with similar conditions in the future. However, there could be side effects from the study treatments, although these would be fully explained by the research team. You are always free to leave the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

  • School of Biomedical Sciences
    Verified postcode
    Coleraine, United Kingdom

Common questions

What are omega-3 fatty acids?

Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats found naturally in foods like oily fish (salmon, mackerel) and some seeds (flaxseed). They are known for being good for your overall health.

Who is funding this research?

The information provided does not specify the funding source for this trial.

Will I know if I'm getting omega-3s or a dummy pill?

Often in studies like this, you won't know whether you're getting the active treatment (omega-3s or semaglutide) or a dummy pill (placebo). This helps ensure the results are fair and unbiased.

How long will the study last?

The summary doesn't give an exact length for the study. The research team will provide this information if you decide to inquire about joining.

Will this study benefit me directly?

While the study aims to find ways to improve health for people with type 2 diabetes and heart issues, there's no guarantee it will directly benefit your health during your participation. However, you would be contributing to important medical knowledge.

How to find out more

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.

Interested in taking part?

Register your interest

Share your details and the research team for "Free Fatty Acid Effects In Type 2 Diabetes…" will contact you if you may be eligible. Always speak to your GP before agreeing to take part.

Discussion

Community discussion

Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.