It can help combat cancer.
A recent study suggests that incorporating fish oil supplements into the diet may benefit men with low-risk prostate cancer who opt for “watchful waiting” instead of immediate treatment. Dr. William Aronson, a professor of urology at the University of California, Los Angeles, led the research, emphasizing that dietary changes could play a role in slowing cancer progression and postponing the need for aggressive interventions. This approach aligns with modern prostate cancer guidelines, which encourage close monitoring for slow-growing tumors to avoid the side effects of invasive treatments.
The study involved 100 men with low- or intermediate-risk prostate cancer who chose active surveillance. Participants were divided into two groups: one maintained their regular diet, while the other received guidance to increase omega-3 fatty acid intake, often found in fish and fish oil supplements, and reduce omega-6 fatty acids common in processed and fried foods. The dietary adjustments were aimed at creating a better balance between these two types of fats.
Researchers measured the impact of these dietary changes using the Ki-67 index, a marker that tracks how quickly cancer cells multiply. After one year, men who adopted the omega-3-rich diet showed a 15% decrease in their Ki-67 index, indicating slower tumor growth. In contrast, those who continued with their usual diet experienced a 24% increase, suggesting faster cancer progression. These findings highlight the potential of dietary interventions to delay or even prevent the need for more invasive treatments.
However, the study also noted that while the omega-3-rich diet reduced the Ki-67 index, it did not affect the Gleason grade, a separate measure of prostate cancer progression. This limitation underscores the need for further research to determine the long-term effects of omega-3 intake on prostate cancer outcomes.
The findings suggest a promising avenue for men seeking non-invasive ways to manage low-risk prostate cancer. By making simple dietary changes, such as increasing omega-3 intake, patients may be able to slow disease progression while avoiding immediate surgery or drug treatments.
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