Cancer and Inflammation

Inflammation is considered a hallmark of cancer. It dictates tumour initiation, progression and growth. 

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) play essential roles in cell signaling and in the cell structure and fluidity of membranes. They participate in the resolution of inflammation and have anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects. 

Omega-3 fatty acids exert anti-inflammatory effects, and they have been shown to preserve muscle mass and function in cancer patients even during active treatment.

Omega-3 fatty acids are considered immunonutrients and are commonly used in the nutritional therapy of cancer patients due to their ample biological effects.

During chemotherapy, omega-3 fatty acids may contribute to a reduced inflammatory response. Clinical studies showed that omega-3 fatty acids increase response rate to chemotherapy.

References:

Freitas, R. D., & Campos, M. M. (2019). Protective effects of omega-3 fatty acids in cancer-related complications. Nutrients, 11(5), 945.

Laviano, A., Rianda, S., Molfino, A., & Fanelli, F. R. (2013). Omega-3 fatty acids in cancer. Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition & Metabolic Care, 16(2), 156-161.

Simopoulos, A. P. (2002). The importance of the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 essential fatty acids. Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy, 56(8), 365-379.