While heart disease and cancer may not be entirely preventable, there are ways an individual can reduce the risk of developing these conditions. Taking certain supplements can help reduce the risk of some diseases. Prior to taking any supplements or herbs, it is best to consult a health care professional to avoid any adverse effects or medication interactions.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The body needs some fatty acids to function properly, but cannot make all that it needs. Omega-3 fatty acids are one of these so-called essential fatty acids that need to be consumed because the body cannot naturally produce them, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. While these fatty acids can be found in salmon, tuna and other fatty fish, they can also be found in fish oil supplements. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 fatty acids help reduce several risk factors for heart disease, including high cholesterol and blood pressure. Individuals who consume foods high in these fatty acids have reduced risk of developing colon cancer and breast cancer, although studies are conflicting on these topics, says the University of Maryland. More research is needed for a definitive connection.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a compound that every cell in the body needs to function, says the Mayo Clinic. It is also an antioxidant, which are chemicals that prevent free radicals from damaging healthy cells. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that CoQ10 helps prevent heart disease because of its antioxidant properties. Past studies that showed individuals taking CoQ10 after a heart attack were less likely to die from heart disease than those who did not take supplements after a heart attack, UMMC reports. This supplement has also been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
General Vitamin and Calcium Supplements
Vitamins do more than keep the body healthy; they may reduce the risk of developing cancer as well. One study presented at the 101st annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research found that vitamin and calcium supplementation can help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. It is thought that calcium supplements help DNA repair mechanisms, helping to prevent disruptions in DNA repair that can lead to cancer and disease. The same study found that vitamin supplements reduced the risk of developing breast cancer by approximately 30 percent, and calcium supplements reduced the risk of developing the disease by 40 percent. Women who take multivitamins or added calcium should consult a physician to discuss the benefits of these supplements for their individual risk factors for breast cancer.
