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June 2, 2010 • Cancer Prevention, Healthy Eating & Nutrition

Benefits of Omega 3 Fatty Acids – Omega 3 Fish Oil and Cancer

The darlings of the healthy fat world, namely omega 3’s, may prove to be helpful for preventing colon cancer.  In a study including about 1,900 adults, as the intakes of omega 3 fats increased, rates of colon cancer decreased.  Among white study participants, those consuming the most omega 3 fats had half the risk of colon cancer as those consuming the least. (American Journal of Epidemiology, April 2010)

The richest sources of omega 3 fats are oily fish (salmon, tuna, sardines, lake trout) and oysters.  Fortified eggs, flax seeds, walnuts, whole soy foods, canola oil, and leafy greens are additional omega 3 foods.  Fish oil or algae-based DHA supplements are also a convenient way to ensure optimal intakes of this vital form of fat.