Whether you prefer white, pink, or yellow—almost everyone loves a nice piece of fish. It’s one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making it an important part of any healthy diet. But what many people don’t know is that eating fish can also help prevent cancer
. In fact, some studies have shown that people who eat more fish as part of their regular diet are less likely to develop certain types of cancer. Not convinced? Keep reading to learn why eating fish is so beneficial for your health.
What is the Connection Between Eating Fish and Preventing Cancer?
A diet high in fish can reduce your risk of certain types of cancer, such as colorectal, breast, pancreatic, and prostate cancer. Eating fish at least twice per week can decrease your risk of this type of cancer by up to 20%. Fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for good health. The body can’t make these nutrients, so they must be obtained through diet. Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines, contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and are believed to help prevent cancer. In fact, recent research suggests that people who consume a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids have a lower risk of developing certain cancers, including colon cancer, prostate cancer, and breast cancer.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Cancer Risk
Omega-3s are anti-inflammatory fats that have been shown to protect against cancer. Epidemiological studies have found that people who consume diets high in omega-3 fatty acids have a lower risk of certain cancers. In one study, researchers followed more than 40,000 men and women for an average of around 10 years. During this time, 1,333 men and women were diagnosed with prostate cancer. The researchers found that men who consumed the highest amounts of omega-3 fatty acids had a 19% reduced risk of getting prostate cancer compared to those who consumed the lowest amounts. Other studies have found similar results, suggesting that omega-3s may reduce the risk of colorectal, pancreatic, breast, and other cancers.
Other Benefits of Eating Fish
- Protein - One of the main reasons why fish is so beneficial for your health is that it is a great source of protein. A large tuna fish salad with a few greens and some veggies is a great source of protein for lunch. - Heart-Healthy Fat - Tuna, salmon, and other fatty fish are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are thought to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol, and may improve your heart health. - Healthy Vision - A diet high in fish is thought to reduce the risk of age-related eye problems, such as macular degeneration (which increases your risk of developing vision problems like blindness) and cataracts.
Conclusion
Though it might seem like a daunting task to incorporate more fish into your diet, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Simply try to consume one serving of fish per week, mix it up and enjoy your favourite types of fish, and don’t forget to pair your fish with healthy side dishes like vegetables and a grain like rice. You can also try mixing up your fish recipes to include more protein-rich options like shrimp, crab, or lobster. You don’t have to be a chef to reap the benefits of eating fish! We’ve provided a few tips along the way to help you get started and build a healthy diet. If you keep these in mind, you’ll be on your way to a better, happier, more fulfilling life!
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