OMEG-3 vs. Omega-6: Can diet affect prostate cancer?

An exciting study from UCLA highlights the importance of the balance between omega-3 and omega-6 for men's health.

Findings from the CAPFISH-3 study:

Men with early-stage prostate cancer who increased their omega-3 intake and reduced omega-6 intake experienced a 15% decrease in cancer cell growth over the course of one year. In contrast, the control group saw a 24% increase in cancer cell growth.

What did they do?

• Reduced omega-6-rich foods such as fried foods, ultra-processed products, and foods with omega-6-rich seed oils like soybean oil, sunflower oil, and corn oil.

• Increased omega-3 intake through fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), shellfish, roe, and high-quality fish oil.

The results suggest that simple dietary changes can help slow the progression of prostate cancer in men with early-stage diagnoses.

Important: In Norway, the omega-6/omega-3 ratio is around 15-20/1, while the ideal level is 1-2/1. An excess of omega-6 is linked to chronic low-grade inflammation and an increased risk of a range of lifestyle-related diseases (including cancer). Improving this balance is one of the easiest ways to support overall health!

Discover delicious seafood recipes in the GØT app!

In the GØT app, you'll find a selection of seafood recipes featuring salmon, trout, mussels, and much more! Learn more about the app here.

Reference:

• Aronson, William J., et al. "High omega-3, low omega-6 diet with fish oil for men with prostate cancer on active surveillance: The CAPFISH-3 randomized clinical trial." Journal of Clinical Oncology (2024): JCO-24.