Polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs), particularly omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are scientifically validated for their role in supporting and treating metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions—including abdominal obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and insulin resistance—that increase the risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Numerous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that replacing saturated fats with polyunsaturated fats in the diet can improve several components of metabolic syndrome.

Specifically, PUFAs are known to lower triglyceride levels, reduce LDL cholesterol, and may modestly increase HDL cholesterol. Omega-3 PUFAs (e.g., EPA and DHA from fish oil) have additional benefits, such as improving endothelial function and exerting anti-inflammatory effects, which are relevant to metabolic syndrome pathophysiology. Some evidence also suggests that higher PUFA intake can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, though findings are less robust for glucose metabolism than for lipid parameters.

While not a stand-alone treatment, dietary guidelines from organizations such as the American Heart Association and the American Diabetes Association endorse increased PUFA consumption as part of dietary strategies to manage and prevent metabolic syndrome. Thus, the use of polyunsaturated fat for metabolic syndrome is supported by a substantial body of clinical and epidemiological research.