A recent report revealed that the presence of increased levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the plasma can possibly lead to an increased chance of developing prostate cancer. Another study has also suggested that an increased level of trans-fatty acids (the unhealthy ones) in the blood lowers the risk of developing prostate cancer.
Researchers who conducted the study gathered data from 3,400 men from all over the country. Those men who had the highest levels of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) in their blood were 2 1/2 times more prone to develop fast spreading prostate cancer as compared to those with the lowest levels of DHA.
DHA is a fatty acid omega-3 that reduces inflammation. This heart-healthy fatty acid is usually found in fatty fish. In the study that was conducted, the men got their DHA levels from eating fish rather than by taking in supplements of fish oil. The presence of omega-6 fatty acids in the blood had no significant connection to the risk of developing fast growing prostate cancer. Omega-6 fatty acids can be found mostly in vegetables. Omega-6 fatty acids however, are believed to encourage inflammation. These results were reported by the researchers at Seattle’s Fred Hutchinson Center for Cancer Research.
The study has also found that elevated levels of trans-fatty acids in the blood significantly lowers the risk of developing prostate cancer by fifty percent. These fatty acids are most often found in processed foods and promotes inflammation, as well as heart disease.
The study was published on April 25 in the online American Journal of Epidemiology. Despite the results of the study, most physicians still recommend eating enough amounts of fish, fiber and vegetables in order to get the recommended amounts of healthy fatty acids.
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