Last Updated:
The study was conducted on around 2.5 lakh participants, spanning an average follow-up period of 12.9 years.
Omega-3 fatty acids are known to be significant nutrients.
A recent study led by Yuchen Zhang at the University of Georgia has come up with some findings that significantly help in cancer research. The latest study has found omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to be protective against multiple cancers. The study was conducted on around 2.5 lakh participants, spanning an average follow-up period of 12.9 years. The study claimed that “a total of 29,838 individuals were diagnosed with cancer during follow-up.” The study found higher levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to be linked with lower rates of 14 types of cancers, such as brain, skin, bladder, and colon cancer.
“In our UK Biobank prospective cohort study, elevated levels of plasma omega-6 and omega-3 PUFAs were linked to reduced overall cancer risk, whereas a higher omega-6/omega-3 ratio was associated with increased risk. The associations of omega-6 PUFAs were stronger in the younger age group and in women, whereas the associations of omega-3 PUFAs were more prominent in the older group, in men, and current smokers,” read the conclusion of the study.
“Our findings extended to the inverse associations of plasma omega-6 and omega-3 PUFAs with 14 site-specific cancers. One notable exception to this trend of protective association was a positive association between omega-3 PUFAs and prostate cancer,” the study added.
Omega-3 fatty acids are known to be a significant nutrient that the body requires in adequate amounts. These play a key role in regulating inflammation levels and in the healthy development of the brain and nervous system. Lack of omega-3 acids can result in several health issues, including the likes of mood fluctuation, lethargy, frequent urination and dehydration. Omega-3 fatty acids have to be obtained from food and other health supplements, as those are not produced in human bodies in a natural process.
Meanwhile, omega-6 fatty acids are crucial for human health but at the same time, overconsumption must be avoided as it can lead to inflammation in the body.
Some of the common sources of omega 3 and omega-6 fatty acids include almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds. Their healthy can protect you from the risk of cancer while improving overall health.
