One common fat may fuel type 2 diabetes while another helps fight it

 

One everyday fat may push the body toward diabetes, while another—abundant in olive oil—could help protect against it.

Date:

June 21, 2026

Source:

University of Barcelona

Summary:

Not all fats affect your body the same way. Researchers found that palmitic acid, a saturated fat common in many foods, may contribute to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes by triggering inflammation, toxic fat buildup, and cellular stress. In contrast, oleic acid—the heart-healthy fat abundant in olive oil—appears to help protect insulin function and may even counter some of the harmful effects of palmitic acid.

Read Here