Effects of n-3 Fatty Acid Supplements in Diabetes Mellitus (ASCEND)
Bowman L, Mafham M, Wallendszus K, Stevens W, Buck G, Barton J
Published in New England Journal of Medicine
Methodology
Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial of 1 g/day n-3 fatty acids in adults with diabetes and no evident cardiovascular disease
Key Findings
Serious vascular events occurred in 8.9% of the n-3 group vs 9.2% of placebo (rate ratio 0.97, 95% CI 0.87-1.08); no significant difference in vascular death or any secondary vascular endpoint.
Conclusions
One gram per day of omega-3 fatty acids produced no significant cardiovascular benefit in people with diabetes.
Limitations
Low dose; event rates lower than projected; no measurement of achieved omega-3 index in most participants.
Supplements Studied
There was no significant difference in the risk of serious vascular events between those who were assigned to receive n-3 fatty acid supplementation and those who were assigned to receive placebo.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
Access Study
Disclosures
Funding
British Heart Foundation, Bayer, Mylan (Abbott)
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.