Study reveals fatty acids fight cancer: the surprising benefits of Omega-3 and Omega-6
A new research of the University of Georgia team led to the determination of a strong relation of the levels of two essential fatty acids in blood, omega-6 and omega-3, with low rates of cancer. The researchers recorded an inverse association between high blood levels of the two crucial fatty acids by following 250,000 people over 10 years of time and that of 19 cancers.
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, or “good fats,” are necessary for maintaining health. These polyunsaturated fats help the body to maintain heart health and reduce inflammation, support the development of the brain and cognitive function, regulate hormones and assist the immune system, and also help grow skin, hair, and nails.
Generally, the sources for both fatty acids are good, fatty fish, which include salmon, sardines, tuna, and mackerel; nuts and seeds, such as walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and hemp seeds; avocados; and plant oils, including canola oil, sunflower oil, and grapeseed oil. Also, fortified foods, such as eggs, yogurt, and milk, contain both of them.
Considering other factors like BMI, level of physical activity and alcohol consumption, the evidence indicated that higher levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids were inversely related with risk for 19 cancers including breast, colon, prostate and lung cancer. Some 30,000 cases of cancer were reported by participants over time in the study. The good effects from high levels of fatty acids showed no difference across all groups.
While fish oil supplements are known to boost levels of the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, researchers caution against supplement use as a substitution for a healthy diet. People with certain health conditions or on medications should consult with a healthcare professional for supplement use recommendations. Quality and dosage vary widely among supplements, so the selection of reputable sources is important.
As such, the results of the research highlights the need for these fatty acids in preventing cancer and its involvement in starting cancer. A diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids as found in fish should be part of one’s diet. For those seeking supplementary intake, one could consult a medical professional in the same regard.
Here are the sources of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids:
Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
- Fatty Fish: Salmon, Sardines, Tuna, Mackerel, Trout
- Shellfish: Oysters, Mussels, Crab
- Nuts and Seeds: Chia Seeds, Flaxseeds, Hemp Seeds, Walnuts
- Plant Oils: Canola Oil, Soybean Oil
- Fortified Foods: Eggs, Yogurt, Milk
- Algal Oil Supplements
- Krill Oil Supplements
Sources of Omega-6 Fatty Acids:
- Nuts and Seeds: Sunflower Seeds, Pumpkin Seeds, Safflower Seeds
- Vegetable Oils: Sunflower Oil, Safflower Oil, Corn Oil
- Meat and Poultry: Chicken, Turkey, Beef
- Fish: Tuna, Mackerel
- Eggs
- Soybeans and Soy Products
- Avocados