Omega-3 fatty acids, also known as polyunsaturated fats, consist of docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid. These fatty acids are associated with a laundry list of benefits, including lowering inflammation and boosting brain function. Research also indicates that omega-3 fatty acids might play a role in treating and reducing the risk of breast cancer.
Mechanism
Researchers performed a review of the mechanisms by which omega-3 fatty acids reduce the risk of breast cancer. At the end of the review, which was published in the March 2002 issue of the "British Journal of Nutrition," they concluded that omega-3 fatty acids reduce the risk of breast cancer by inducing apoptosis, or cell death of breast cancer cells.
Breast Cancer Risk
ScienceDaily reports on research in the July 2010 issue of the journal "Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention," where scientists examined the impact of fish oil, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, on breast cancer risk. Researchers asked 35,016 postmenopausal women without a history of breast cancer to complete a questionnaire regarding the use of supplements. During the six year follow up, 880 cases of breast cancer were diagnosed. Researchers found that regular use of fish oil supplements reduced the risk of breast cancer by 32 percent.
Breast Cancer Treatment
Omega-3 fatty acids might play a role in treating breast cancer, according to a report by ScienceDaily of a study published in the June 2005 issue of "Breast Cancer Research." Researchers discovered that the combination of omega-3 fatty acids with propofol, a cancer treatment drug, increased apoptosis by 40 percent and reduce cell migration by 50 percent.
Side Effects and Interactions
Omega-3 fatty acids may cause side effects, including bloating, gas and diarrhea. In addition, they may also interact with certain medications such as blood thinning and diabetes medications, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Therefore, consult your health care provider before taking any omega-3 supplements.
References
- "British Journal of Nutrition"; N-3 Fatty Acids and Lipid Peroxidation in Breast Cancer Inhibition; B.A. Stoll; March 2002
- ScienceDaily; Fish Oil May Reduce Risk of Breast Cancer; Jul. 8, 2010
- Science Daily; Omega-3 Offers Hope for New Anti-Breast Cancer Drugs; Jun. 8, 2005
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Omega-3 Fatty Acids; Jun. 25, 2009
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