Fish May Help Against Prostate Cancer
Aside from being good for the heart, the omega-3 fatty acids typically found in cold water fish may also help in treating prostate cancer. In animal trials, researchers have shown that feeding mice with a 1:1 ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids reduced prostate tumor growth rates and lowered PSA levels.
The most likely mechanism for the tumor reductions, according to researchers, was due to an increase of the prostate tumor omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA and a lowering of the omega-6 acid known as arachidonic acid. These three fatty acids compete to be converted by cyclooxgenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) into prostaglandins, which can become either pro-inflammatory and increase tumor growth, or anti-inflammatory and reduce growth.
Of course, human studies trials will still have to be done before any recommendations can be made. Still, having more of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet (more marine cold-water fish such as salmon, tuna and sardines) and less of the omega-6 fatty acids (corn oil, meats) can be beneficial, if not for your prostate health, then for your heart. You can also supplement your diet with fish oils, but it would be wise to consult your physician first.
Tags: cardiovascular, diet, fish, fish-oil, omega-3-fatty-acid, prostate, prostate-cancer, ~CancerRelated Stories
POSTED IN: ~Cancer, ~Cardiovascular Health, ~Fish and Seafoods
1 opinion for Fish May Help Against Prostate Cancer
Eating Fabulous » Omega-3 and 6 Fatty Acids and Hyperactivity
Oct 17, 2006 at 4:04 am
[…] Previously, I’ve written entries showing how fish and fish-derived fatty acids may lower the risk of contracting a variety of cancers (prostate, renal and breast cancers, to name a few). Fish is also one of the best sources of DHA, which is good for the brain. […]
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