Omega 6/omega 3 fatty acid ratio as an essential predictive biomarker in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Abstract Background Dietary fatty acid intake may play a major role in the prevention and management of lifestyle related diseases, like type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Therefore, the present study aims to find an association between omega 6/omega 3 ratio and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methodology Fasting plasma glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and insulin were measured using commercially available kits. Fatty acid methyl esters were prepared using standard protocols. Delta 5 desaturase (D5D) and delta 6 desaturase (D6D) activities were determined from product-to-precursor ratios of individual fatty acids in plasma. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0. Results and Discussion Omega 6/omega 3 ratio was higher in the diabetic group (13:1) when compared to that of the non-diabetic group (4:1) and was statistically significant (p Conclusion From the study results, it is evident that omega 6/omega 3 fatty acid ratios can serve as an essential predictive biomarker in the management of T2DM. This would not only help in management but also in prevention of increased type 2 diabetes incidence in India. Thereby potentiates the need to maintain an ideal balance of omega 6/ omega 3 ratio as prevention is always better than cure.