Research from the University of Guelph suggests that a life-long diet rich in omega-3 can help prevent the development of breast cancer.
In fact, exposure to omega-3 while still in the womb, decreases the size and number of cancerous breast tumors in adulthood by 20 percent. Starting early in life with a steady diet of omega-3 fatty acids could be ke to reducing breast cancer.
The research supports a growing body of data that indicates exposing embryos, babies, and toddlers to certain nutrients can influence overall health later in life.
Breast tissue growth is constant from birth to first pregnancy. However, certain growth periods are more prone to mutations than others, which can cause breast cancer. Each phase of growth includes opportunity for various environmental factors, including diet, to influence the risk of breast cancer.
Given Canadians’ inadequate omega-3 intake, the first priority should be to increase omega-3 fatty acids in the diet, said Professor David Ma at the university. This can be achieved by consuming a variety of foods and supplements rich in omega-3, including flaxseeds, walnuts, certain vegetable oils, fish and fish oils.
Milk and eggs fortified with DHA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid, are also available, thanks to previous U of G research.