Men diagnosed with prostate cancer may want to up their intake of fish oil in their diet due to recent research suggesting a delay in the progression of the cancer. Fish oil has a potential impact on the immune system, specifically on tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) known for playing a significant role in the progression of cancer. This study focused on administering a high-fat fish oil diet or corn oil diet to mice with prostate cancer tumors.
Overall, researchers found a decrease in TAM infiltration and a delay in prostate cancer progression in mice fed fish oil compared to the mice given corn oil. Additionally, levels of various cancer markers in the immune system were lower in the fish oil-fed mice compared to the corn oil-fed mice. Based on these findings, the fish oil diet may have a role to play in impacting the progression of human prostate cancer through the immune system.
Analyzing Omega-3s and Prostate Cancer
Another research study examined the safety and efficacy of fish-derived omega-3 fatty acids in the incidence and progression of prostate cancer. A total of 44 studies were reviewed, producing mixed results, with some studies highlighting a decrease in inflammation and other cancer markers, as well as a lower risk of prostate cancer-related death associated with higher fish intake. However, other studies did not yield such positive results. Researchers concluded that more research is needed to establish the association between higher omega-3 intake and a decrease in prostate cancer mortality.
Incorporating Fish Oil into Your Diet
Regardless of whether you have prostate cancer, you can still benefit from incorporating more fish oil into your diet. Clean, less contaminated sources of fish oil include sardines and mussels, both of which are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Mussels are also a more sustainable and environmentally responsible choice as approximately 90 percent of the world’s fish populations are either exploited or depleted. In comparison, mussels remain unaffected.
For those who avoid fish or only occasionally include it in their diet, fish oil supplements are a viable option for overall health and good wellbeing. Opt for a reputable brand to ensure it is responsibly sourced from sustainable resources. Molecular distillation assures purity and the absence of any artificial ingredients, allergens, or GMOs in the fish oil supplements.
Other Health Benefits of Fish Oil
The advantages of fish oil are not only limited to potentially delaying prostate cancer progression. Fish oil, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, has been associated with several health benefits such as reducing inflammation, improving heart health, helping with weight management, and supporting brain health, among others.
Keep in mind that moderation is key when supplementing with fish oil, as excessive consumption may lead to a weakened immune system or an increased risk of bleeding. Always consult a healthcare professional before taking fish oil supplements. It’s important to remember that supplements should never replace a well-balanced diet, but instead, provide an additional boost in cases where certain nutrients are needed.
