Retinopathy is a major cause of blindness and is becoming even more prevalent with the increase of obesity in Americans. A new study indicates that omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent the development of diabetic retinopathy.
The study is detailed in the journal Science Translational Medicine. Mice were fed a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids and researchers discovered that this prevented the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina. The omega-3 was converted into an acid called 4-HDHA which slowed the growth of the abnormal blood vessels.
Another benefit of this finding is that omega-3 is not affected by medicines such as aspirin or other painkillers. This is important since many diabetic patients take aspirin to prevent heart disease.
