Regular consumption of fish lowers the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, while high consumption of red meats gives the opposite effect, a new study claimed.

A team of researchers from the University of Valencia tried to find out if there was a connection between the Mediterranean diet and causes linked to diabetes and cardiovascular risk.

Lead author Mercedes Sotos Prieto said that the foods that form part of a typical diet in Mediterranean countries have decreased over the recent decades, while the consumption of red meats and industrial baking has risen.

All of the 340 adult males and 605 adult females involved in the Predimed study (Prevention with a Mediterranean Diet) were suffering from high cardiovascular risks. On the other hand, people consuming the fish-rich Mediterranean diet were found to be at lower diabetes and cardiovascular risks.

Prieto said that fish is a rich source of omega-3, which is improves insulin sensitivity.

Explaining his point, Prieto said, “Various hypotheses have been put forward that attempt to explain why the consumption of fish can be related to diabetes. The increase of omega-3 in the cells of the skeletal muscles improves insulin sensitivity.”

The study published in the recent issue of the journal Nutricion Hospitalaria.