Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Two nutrients that have been shown to h...
Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Two nutrients that have been shown to have cancer-fighting properties are vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids.
Vitamin D is essential for many bodily functions, including bone health, immune function, and cell growth. It is also thought to play a role in cancer prevention.
Vitamin D can help to reduce cancer risk in a number of ways. It can help to:
- Inhibit the growth of cancer cells
- Induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) of cancer cells
- Reduce inflammation, which can promote cancer growth
- Boost the immune system to help fight cancer cells
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that have many health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and inflammation. Omega-3s are also thought to play a role in cancer prevention.
Omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce cancer risk in a number of ways. They can help to:
- Inhibit the growth of cancer cells
- Induce apoptosis of cancer cells
- Reduce inflammation
- Boost the immune system
How much vitamin D and omega-3 do I need?
The recommended daily intake of vitamin D for adults is 600 IU, but some experts believe that higher doses may be needed for optimal health. The best way to get vitamin D is from sunlight exposure, but you can also get it from food sources such as fatty fish, eggs, and fortified milk.
The recommended daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids for adults is 500 mg for men and 250 mg for women. Good sources of omega-3s include fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel, as well as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
If you are concerned about your cancer risk, talk to your doctor about whether taking vitamin D or omega-3 supplements is right for you.
Additional tips for reducing your cancer risk
In addition to getting enough vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, there are a number of other things you can do to reduce your cancer risk, such as:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Exercising regularly
- Getting regular cancer screenings
By following these tips, you can help to reduce your risk of developing cancer.
