A new study from the University of Georgia (USA) shows that certain foods may serve as effective remedies to prevent cancer.
Published in the International Journal of Cancer, the authors from the University of Georgia reported that they analyzed data from over 250,000 individuals and found that higher levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are associated with a lower risk of cancer.
According to the authors, they compared the consumption levels of omega-3 and omega-6 with the risk of 15 different types of cancer.
Foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 help reduce the risk of various cancers – (Photo: NEWS-MEDICAL).
Notably, both of these fatty acids reduce the risk of cancer in four locations: the stomach, colon, bile duct, and lungs.
This is particularly significant as these are common types of cancer, with lung cancer being the most prevalent and deadliest worldwide, according to a report from the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2024.
When considered individually, omega-3 helps prevent five types of cancer, in addition to the four mentioned above, including prostate cancer.
As for omega-6, it helps prevent an additional 10 types of cancer, including cancers of the head and neck, brain, esophagus, pancreas, thyroid, rectum, bladder, melanoma (skin), kidneys, and soft connective tissue.
Four other types of cancer, namely ovarian, breast, uterine, and blood cancers, were also examined but showed no correlation with omega-3 and omega-6 levels.
“These findings suggest that the general public should focus on increasing the intake of these fatty acids in their diet,” advised lead author Yuchen Zhang from the College of Public Health at the University of Georgia.
According to Medical Xpress, known as “healthy fats”, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential for human health.
Omega-3 is primarily found in fatty fish (also known as oily fish, including salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring, etc.), shellfish, nuts, and seeds. Dark leafy greens and avocados also contain a small amount.
Omega-6 can be obtained through healthy vegetable oils such as soybean, sunflower, pumpkin seed, sesame oil, eggs, and lean meats.
Therefore, maintaining a balanced diet with adequate protein—including both animal and plant proteins—while utilizing healthy vegetable oils can help you maintain appropriate levels of omega-3 and omega-6.
