Fatty acids may protect against several types of cancer – STUDY

A new study by researchers at the University of Georgia suggests that omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, found in fatty fish, nuts and some oils, may have significant benefits. in preventing certain types of cancer.

These types of healthy fats are already recognized for their positive effects on cholesterol and brain function, but recent research suggests that they may also help reduce the risk of ‘ development of certain types of cancer.

What the study shows about fatty acids

The study, published in the International Journal of Cancer, showed that higher levels of omega-3 and omega-6 in the blood were associated with a lower risk of cancer, although there was some variation between different types of cancer. . Cancers that have not been linked to these types of fatty acids include those of the ovary, breast, uterus, and lymphoid and hematopoietic tissues.

The researchers found that a higher level of omega-3 was associated with a lower risk of colorectal, stomach and lung cancer, as well as other cancers of the digestive tract.

Conversely, a higher level of omega-6 was linked to a lower risk of brain cancer, malignant melanoma, bladder cancer and 11 other types of cancer. The benefits of omega-6 were more pronounced among young people, especially women.

To achieve these results, the researchers used data from a large study of more than 250,000 participants in the UK, which was followed for almost 13 years. Almost 1 in 8 participants developed some form of cancer during this time.

Unlike other previous research, which suggests a link between fatty acids and cancerthis study was able to show that complicating factors such as body mass index, alcohol consumption, smoking or level of physical activity did not influence the benefits.

Although the results of the study are promising, the researchers point out some limitations in the research. The data comes mainly from people of European and white ethnicity, which means that the results do not necessarily apply to all ethnic groups.

Also, the types of cancer studied were very rare, and the researchers could not take individual genetics into account. They suggest that further studies are needed to confirm and extend these findings.

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids

In terms of health benefits, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are considered healthy fats that are essential for the proper functioning of the body. Omega-3 is found primarily in fish oils and is often recommended as a dietary supplement to increase the level of these fatty acids in the body.

Omega-6 comes mainly from vegetable oils and seeds, and it is also considered beneficial for health.

However, the researchers emphasized that omega-3 and omega-6 supplements are not interchangeable, and that taking high levels of omega-6 is not recommended for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or diabetes. as it may increase the risk of high blood pressure. .

Another important aspect of the study was the exclusion of prostate cancer. In this type of cancer, the researchers observed that higher levels of omega-3 were associated with a slightly higher incidence of prostate cancer, suggesting that the effects of omega-3 may vary depending on the type of cancer.

Despite this exception, the authors of the study still recommend that women include more sources of omega-3 in their diet, with the obvious benefits for overall health and cancer prevention.

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