Omega 3 oils are used by cancer patients to lower their blood pressure risk, reduce triglycerides and improve general heart health. Yet a new study suggests that people taking fish oils may also benefit from a reduced risk of colon cancer.

The study, published by Cancer Prevention Research found that personalised dosages of Omega-3 fatty acids reduce prostaglandin E2 levels (PGE2) in the colon. This is a compound that is known to cause cancer. In overweight patients however, the benefits reduce however.

PGE2 is used by the body in controlling inflammation and promoting healing. PGE2 is from Omega-6 fatty acids and usually protects the body against injuries and infections in the colon. When the colon is out of balance, there is a link with inflammation and diseases such as cancer and heart disease according to the study’s authors.

The Omega-3 fatty acid lowers the amount of Omega-6 fatty acids available. It is this that is key to controlling PGE2 production.

Maintaining A Healthy Lifestyle Is Essential

Keeping at a healthy body weight is essential for best results. Long-term inflammation can result in excessive overproduction of PGE2, along with colon cancer.

Being overweight or obese causes inflammation. The authors suggest that it is this kind of inflammation that can increase the risk of Type 2 Diabetes and heart disease.

Researchers did blood tests on ratios of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to personalise the fatty acid dosing. Yet this was not enough in cases of overweight or obese people. They found “The metabolic effects of carrying excess weight may reduce preventive strategies and increase colon cancer risks.”

In the 3 month study, 48 patients of varying weights with no previous history of cancer received a customised dose of Omega-3 fatty acids. They also underwent blood tests and colon biopsies.

The Study’s Findings And Observations

In the blood tests for patients of a normal weight and taking a fish supplement, a 50% reduction in PGE2 was taken into observation.

In overweight or obese patients, receiving even larger doses of Omega-3s, the protection against colon cancer was still diminished. The study’s findings indicate that these overweight individuals are at a higher risk of colon cancer.

The PGE2 and PGE3 are vital for protecting against infections. Authors note that balanced PGE2 is essential in the colon. This is because the bacteria are neighbours to the colon wall. PGE2 is essential for maintaining a defense against infections.

The study noted however that the inflammatory response must dampen and not stay elevated. Researchers are now looking to further investigate the multiple eicosanoids to determine the best protective balance of PGE2.

Anyone looking to protect their colon health should consider adding Omega-3s from a pure source into their diet. Krill oil is rich in EPA, DHA and is safe, pure and free of heavy metals, PCB`s, dioxins, and contaminates. Krill Oil is also a super rich source of Omegas 3, 6 and 9. Vegetarians and vegans may want to consider taking a Hemp Seed Oil supplement as an alternative to the Krill Oil.

 

Recommended Examples

The Krill Miracle™ – Contains high strength DHA/EPA from Krill Oil. Supports anti-inflammatory processes, helps to maintain normal cholesterol lipids. Krill Source with Food Grade Approval.

Made using Superba™ Krill Oil which is one of the few products made of marine oils, which has food grade approval throughout the whole supply chain, from harvesting to finished product. Available from Good Health Naturally.