A new study in Marine Drugs found that supplementation with Zooca Calanus oil, a nutritional oil derived from plankton, was linked to improved measures of glucose homeostasis in people with abdominal obesity and varying degrees of insulin resistance.

The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial followed 266 participants over a 12-week period. Participants were divided into four intervention arms: Zooca at 2 grams per day, 4 grams per day, 2 grams per day combined with lifestyle intervention, and placebo. All participants exhibited varying degrees of insulin resistance but were otherwise healthy.

Glucose homeostasis, the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar, is essential for long-term metabolic health. Insulin resistance causes the body’s cells to become less responsive to insulin, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. If left unaddressed, it can progress to prediabetes and eventually type 2 diabetes.

In the present study, improvements in glucose homeostasis and the assessment of metabolic change were measured using the HOMA index, an accepted marker for insulin resistance. Other supporting parameters measured were fasting insulin and HbA1c.

Zooca Calanus oil significantly improved insulin sensitivity, most strongly in individuals with mild insulin resistance. Significant reductions in both fasting insulin levels and HOMA index were observed in mild cases of insulin resistance, but this response wasn’t observed in people with advanced insulin resistance.

The authors concluded that Zooca Calanus Oil can have a positive influence on insulin sensitivity and metabolic regulation, particularly when used preventively in the early stages of insulin resistance.

“This clinical study marks an important milestone,” said Marianne Maehlum, chief marketing and innovation officer at Zooca. “It builds on earlier clinical findings and strengthens the scientific foundation for Zooca Calanus Oil as a nutritional strategy to support metabolic health. The results give us valuable insight into how the oil may help people maintain healthy blood sugar levels for longer, especially when used early and combined with simple lifestyle changes.”