Taking omega 3 for prostate health is important for men looking to maintain or restore prostate health or reduce their risk of prostate cancer. So get out the fishing pole and tackle (or shopping cart!) and go fishing for great sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Those sources include cold water fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, herring, sardines, and mackerel. These fish are excellent sources of the two main omega-3s: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
Both EPA and DHA have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which is helpful in managing an enlarged prostate and prostatitis.
The omega-3s also provide other benefits for prostate health, such as helping maintain the integrity of cell membranes, lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and helping prevent cancer cell growth. Several studies also have indicated omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial in fighting prostate cancer.
For example, a large study in Sweden found that the risk of prostate cancer was 43 percent lower in men who ate “salmon-like fish” at least once a week compared with men who never ate that type of fatty fish. Another study found that men who consumed fish rich in EPA/DHA at least once a week had a 63 percent reduced risk of developing prostate cancer.
References
Hedelin M et al. Association of frequent consumption of fatty fish with prostate cancer risk is modified by COX-2 polymorphism. International Journal of Cancer 2007 Jan 15; 120(2): 398-405
Fradet V et al. Dietary omega-3 fatty acids, COX-2 genetic variation, and aggressive prostate cancer risk. Clinical Cancer Research 2009 Apr 1; 15(7): 2559-66
