[Amirang] Nutrients to prevent cancer recurrence, how to take Omega-3 like this

Unsaturated fatty acids that lower triglycerides

The fats we commonly refer to as 지방 (fat) are mainly divided into saturated fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids. Saturated fatty acids found mainly in meat can cause the buildup of bad cholesterol, which is not good for health. On the other hand, unsaturated fatty acids reduce harmful triglyceride levels in the body. It is beneficial to consume 12% of daily calories from unsaturated fatty acids, and the nutrient composed of unsaturated fatty acids is omega-3.

Omega-3 that prevents cancer cell proliferation

Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid that the body cannot synthesize. It breaks down beta-catenin proteins that are used to grow cancer cells, thereby preventing tumor proliferation. This is why cancer patients need to consume Omega-3 even to prevent recurrence. A research team from the University of Nebraska in the United States supplied Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to mice with induced breast cancer. As a result, the group that consumed Omega-3 fatty acids showed a slower tumor formation rate and more immune cells compared to the Omega-6 group. There is also a study from Zhejiang University in China indicating that the incidence of breast cancer was 14% lower in the Omega-3 intake group than in the non-intake group.

Omega-3 is also called the 'vascular cleaner' because it inhibits and breaks down fat production within blood vessels, thereby reducing triglycerides in the blood. It is also used to maintain the healthy structure of cell membranes. Oxygen, nutrients, and hormones are smoothly supplied into cells, which not only helps prevent cancer but also enhances treatment effectiveness.

Helps prevent recurrence and depression.

Cancer patients need to carefully manage their blood omega-3 levels. A deficiency in omega-3 can cause cells to stiffen and increase the likelihood of inflammation. This raises the risk of diseases such as blood clots, cardiovascular diseases, and brain disorders. A study from the University of Zurich in Germany shows that people who consistently consume omega-3 have a lower risk of developing cancer.

Consistently consuming omega-3 can increase the secretion of serotonin, known as the happiness hormone, which also helps prevent depression. Anxiety and depression cause stress in the body, which can impair the function of immune cells called NK cells, potentially reducing the effectiveness of cancer treatment.

Rich in blue fish and nuts

Since omega-3 is not produced naturally in the body, it must be obtained through food. A piece of mackerel contains 0.5 to 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids. This is about half of the daily recommended intake of omega-3 fatty acids (2.7g for men, 2.1g for women) suggested by the Korean Nutrition Society. In addition to mackerel, saury, dried pollack, and salmon are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Furthermore, omega-3 fatty acids experience minimal nutritional loss depending on the cooking method. Prepare it in a convenient way.

If you are hesitant to eat fish due to concerns about fishy smell or heavy metals, consuming a handful of nuts to intake omega-3 is also an option. Pistachios, pine nuts, almonds, and walnuts are representative. In particular, omega-3 in walnuts is effective in reducing blood cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure.

Among plant oils, perilla oil contains a high amount of omega-3. The Rural Development Administration recommends consuming 3 grams of perilla oil (half a tablespoon based on a rice spoon) daily to help prevent chronic diseases. To store perilla oil without rancidity for a long time, it is best to keep it at a low temperature below 4°C. Storing perilla oil at room temperature causes it to become rancid quickly.

One tablet before and after lunch.

When it is very difficult to consume food, it is okay to take nutritional supplements. You can choose either capsule or liquid form for convenience. However, if you smell a fishy odor when bursting a capsule in your mouth, it means the supplement has already gone rancid, so please be cautious.

Omega-3 supplements are most effective when taken before or after lunch. Consuming them with food can reduce heartburn, belching, and stomach discomfort, while also increasing absorption.

Avoid intake before surgery

However, cancer patients who are about to undergo surgery or are taking blood pressure medication should be cautious about omega-3 intake. Omega-3 helps dissolve blood clots and promotes smooth blood circulation, but if it interacts with medication, it can cause severe hypotension. If you plan to take health supplements, you must consult with your doctor.

Overconsumption is also not recommended. Excessive intake of omega-3 can interfere with the metabolism of other unsaturated fats like omega-6. Please adhere to the recommended amount mentioned above.