Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among women worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women, after lung cancer.

However, thanks to advances in research, diagnosis, and treatment, more women are surviving breast cancer than ever before. Scientists are constantly looking for ways to prevent and treat breast cancer, and one area of interest is the impact of omega-3 fatty acids on breast cancer.

What are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?

Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of fat that are essential for human health. The body cannot produce omega-3 fatty acids on its own and must obtain them from food sources like fatty fish, flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts.

There are three main types of omega-3 fatty acids: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). EPA and DHA are found mainly in fatty fish and fish oil supplements, while ALA is found in plants.

The Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing inflammation, lowering blood pressure, improving heart health, and reducing the risk of certain types of cancer.

Research has also shown that omega-3 fatty acids may have a role to play in preventing and treating breast cancer.

The Link Between Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Breast Cancer

Several studies have investigated the relationship between omega-3 fatty acids and breast cancer.

One study published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found that women with higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood had a lower risk of developing breast cancer. Another study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that consuming fish oil supplements, which are high in omega-3 fatty acids, was associated with a lower risk of breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women.

While the research is not yet conclusive, there are several theories about how omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of breast cancer.

One theory is that omega-3 fatty acids may reduce inflammation in the body, which is thought to contribute to cancer development. Another theory is that omega-3 fatty acids may inhibit the growth of cancer cells by altering their metabolism.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Breast Cancer Treatment

Omega-3 fatty acids may also have a role to play in breast cancer treatment. One study published in the journal Cancer Research found that omega-3 fatty acids may enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs used to treat breast cancer.

Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that consuming fish oil supplements during chemotherapy was associated with a lower risk of chemotherapy-related side effects, such as nausea and vomiting.

Some research has also suggested that omega-3 fatty acids may help to reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence in women who have previously been diagnosed with the disease.

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that women who consumed higher amounts of omega-3 fatty acids after a breast cancer diagnosis had a lower risk of recurrence and death from breast cancer.

How to Incorporate Omega-3 Fatty Acids into Your Diet

If you’re interested in incorporating more omega-3 fatty acids into your diet, there are several ways to do so. Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel are high in EPA and DHA, while flaxseed and chia seeds are high in ALA.

You can also take fish oil supplements, which are widely available over-the-counter. When choosing a supplement, look for one that is high in EPA and DHA and has been independently tested for purity and quality.

The Bottom Line

While the research is still ongoing, the evidence suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may have a role to play in preventing and treating breast cancer.

If you’re interested in incorporating more omega-3 fatty acids into your diet, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to find out what’s right for you.