I saw on the news last month that it could be dangerous because of all the chemicals that fish ingest. My daughter’s doctor has suggested she take Omega-3 daily to help with a heart condition but we don’t know if it would outweigh the cancer risk. Cancer runs in our family.
Has anyone heard anymore about the cancer risks in taking Omega-3?
Mon, Jan 31, 2011
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January 31st, 2011 at 1:34 pm
Take vegetarian Omega 3 supplements. They don’t come from fish, they come from flax, chia seeds, algae and other vegetarian sources
January 31st, 2011 at 2:24 pm
Ask your daughter’s doctor about where to get the pharmaceutical grade, or ask for a prescription for it.
January 31st, 2011 at 3:00 pm
Hi Annie. Numerous tests have shown that fish oil supplements do NOT contain mercury or other toxins (e.g. dioxins). Therefore, the risk is basically non-existent and the benefits for the heart are real.
Best wishes and good luck.
January 31st, 2011 at 3:42 pm
I take flax seed capsules with all the omegas in. The thought of swallowing fish oil just grosses me out. I didn’t start taking it to cure my cancer. I started on supplements because I wanted to be sure I was getting proper nutrients while going thru chemo and radiation.
•Omega 3 fatty acids and fish oil do not appear to reduce your risk for cancer.
•Omega 3 fatty acids and fish oil do not appear to have any significant effect on cancer surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. Researchers also found no effect on weight loss or overall nutrition.
•Omega 3 fatty acids do not appear to have any effect on the immune system in cancer cases.
•Some animal studies show fish oils may prevent or reduce the risk for tumors of the colon, breast, prostate and pancreas.
•Taking fish oil does not increase your risk for cancer.
If you would like more detailed information on this review, you can access the complete study at the National Library of Medicine http://www.ahrq.gov/clinic/epcsums/o3cansum.htm
January 31st, 2011 at 3:54 pm
My husband takes the Prescription Omega-3 that is supposed to be the most pure. I would go with that option. Check around the different drug stores for a better deal on the cost.
We purchased Omega-3 for our dog and discovered it was made in China…you might want to check at a local health food store. We have a Healthway nearby….I got a something natural that replaced Paxil…and it worked great! My Mother was prescribed an enzyme to help with digesting food…it became too costly so she checked with the health food store. Her doctor said if it works..use it!
I’m guessing it was mercury….you might want to ask about anti-oxidants that are good to help prevent cancer. There are certain fruits and vegetables that are better than others. But there again, be careful of the chemicals. Good luck!