Those who have a higher risk of breast cancer should think about changing up their diet. Researchers collaborating with The North American Menopause Society find that diets high in n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) may help decrease the risk of breast cancer.
Fish, vegetable oil, nuts (especially walnuts), flax seeds, flaxseed oil, and leafy vegetables are excellent sources of n-3 PUFAs. These foods are essential because the human body doesn’t naturally produce n-3 fatty acids.
The latest research included nearly 1,600 cases from a hospital-based, case-controlled study. Researchers analyzed the association between the intake of n-3 PUFAs in general with breast cancer and looked at the individual effect of n-3 PUFAs. The Chinese team also examined whether the association was modified by menopause status, hormone-receptor status, or linoleic acid intake.
More seafood may be the key
The study found that women had a lower risk of breast cancer after eating more marine n-3 PUFAs and total n-3 PUFAs. Researchers say that dietary a-linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid also decreased the risk of breast cancer.