Lung Cancer Remedy with Reduced Fat Content, Suitable for Smokers as Well
Dietary Unsaturated Fats May Lower Lung Cancer Risk in Smokers, Study Finds
According to a new study, a diet low in fat, particularly saturated fats, may lower the risk of lung cancer in smokers by 29%. The research, conducted by Chinese researchers, analyzed data from over 98,000 participants in a U.S.-based cancer study.
The study's authors shared that saturated fats seemed to increase the risk of lung cancer, while unsaturated fats appeared not to have the same adverse effect. Registered dietitian Catherine Rall explained this could be due to saturated fatty acids producing an inflammatory response in the body, which may lead to chronic inflammation and increased cancer risk.
This finding supports earlier studies that linked a high intake of fruits, vegetables, fiber, and low intake of red and processed meat to a lower risk of lung cancer. Furthermore, the study discovered that diets high in saturated fats were associated with a 35% increased risk of lung cancer in general and double the risk of small-cell lung cancer.
Small-cell lung cancer is a rare form of lung cancer, accounting for only about 15% of cases. It grows fast and often spreads to other parts of the body, making it aggressive and harder to treat. The five-year survival rate for this form of lung cancer is only 30%.
Olive oil, particularly extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), is a healthy unsaturated fat source with additional cancer-fighting properties. Olive oil contains a potent natural anti-inflammatory compound called oleocanthal, which has been shown to kill cancer cells.
The easiest way to reduce saturated fat intake is by cutting out ultraprocessed food, which is generally high in saturated fats and associated with over 30 dangerous or deadly health conditions. Individuals should try to avoid products with unrecognizable ingredients, such as frozen pizza, soda, frozen chicken nuggets, and certain cereals.
Smokers are not the only people at risk for lung cancer, and the symptoms are not always respiratory issues. Awareness of these unusual signs of lung cancer can be beneficial for early detection.
By following a healthy diet low in saturated fats and rich in unsaturated fats, smokers may lower their risk of developing lung cancer. Smoking cessation remains the most important factor for lung cancer prevention.
- Registered dietitian Catherine Rall speculates that the increased risk of lung cancer associated with saturated fats may be due to their ability to induce an inflammatory response in the body, leading to chronic inflammation and potential cancer development.
- The study uncovers an association between diets high in saturated fats and a 35% increased risk of lung cancer in general, as well as a doubled risk of small-cell lung cancer, a rare and aggressive form of lung cancer.
- Olive oil, specifically extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), not only serves as a healthy unsaturated fat source but also boasts additional cancer-fighting properties, such as oleocanthal, a natural anti-inflammatory compound that exhibits potential in killing cancer cells.
- Apart from quitting smoking, adhering to a healthy diet low in saturated fats and rich in unsaturated fats may help reduce the risk of developing lung cancer, further emphasizing the importance of nutrition in health and wellness, including fitness and exercise, as well as preventing medical conditions like cancer.
