Omega 3s and Cancer

Scientists are forever moving forward with research that will help cure, or even obliterate cancer. And now it looks like they have found a natural way to help kill cancer cells: with Omega-3s. Not only that, studies indicate that Omega-3s are helpful in neutralizing the negative side effects of certain chemotherapy drugs.

If Omega-3s weren’t enough of a winner nutrient before, they sure are now! In a study performed at Mansoura University in Egypt, a team led by Professor A.M. El-Mowafy discovered that Omega-3 fatty acids helped shrink tumor sizes in mice. The study indicates that the main component of Omega-3s, DHA (docosahexanoic acid) reduces white blood cell accumulation, systematic inflammation and oxidative stress. All three factors are said to be prevalent in tumor growth. In addition to actually shrinking the tumors in mice, Omega 3s also interacted with cisplatin, a drug that is used in chemotherapy and which can cause kidney damage.

The research showed that Omega-3s are helpful in neutralizing the negative side effects (such as renal failure) that are caused by this chemotherapy drug. The study is the first to state that the presence of DHA is beneficial in this way.In addition to preventing renal damage when using the drug cisplatin, the Omega-3s also enhanced the effect of the drug when killing cancer cells in mice. These particular studies have caused the medical community to take even more notice of the benefits of Omega 3s. Additional studies are underway to see more benefits of the Omega-3 fatty fish oil component DHA and how it can help prevent cancer.

What are the other Benefits of Omega-3s? Omega 3s are found in salmon, cod, tuna and other cold water fish. The benefits of Omega-3 fatty fish oils have been known to lower cholesterol as well as promote digestive health. Many people take Omega-3 supplements for these purposes. There are also indications that Omega-3s are beneficial when it comes to memory, and studies indicate that it can potentially stave off dementia and even Alzheimer’s disease.

While Omega 3s have been known to provide the many health benefits as listed above, this is the first study that indicates that they can directly contribute to killing cancer cells when the cancer is treated with the chemotherapy drug cisplatin.

Hope for Cancer Patients: Many patients who are undergoing chemotherapy with cisplatin have to stop because of the effect of the drug on the kidneys. This study indicates that those who take Omega 3s when undergoing chemotherapy treatment may not only get better results when it comes to tumor shrinkage, but can also eliminate the potential for dangerous side effects.

Whether or not you’re currently fighting cancer, the message is clear: don’t skimp on your Omega-3s!