These days, there is a lot of talk about Omega-3 fish oil supplements and their benefits. After all, they have the ability to lower blood pressure and the chance of heart attack or stroke, all with a simple daily tablet. However, although these supplements are great in more ways than one, they may pose a threat to the intended effects of chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy is the process of administering drugs that aim to shrink or eliminate cancer cells in the body. Side effects include a weaker immune system, weight loss, and a poor appetite, so it would seem appropriate to continue taking daily dietary supplements to keep nutrition levels steady. However, doctors do not recommend taking fish oil supplements soon after a chemotherapy session. A Dutch study has shown that components of fish oil in Omega-3 tablets, especially herring and mackerel oils, may hinder the effects of chemotherapy due to their tendency to alter the existing membrane of the cancer cell, making it harder for the drugs to penetrate and kill.
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The study was conducted on mice, but it cannot be replicated in the exact same way with humans, as it is unethical to potentially risk the lives of cancer patients. Thus, tests were only conducted on cancer patients who were already taking fish oils on a daily basis, compared with patients who were not. However, there were no significant results that indicated that fish oil causes chemotherapy to be ineffective; other factors, such as the state of the individual and his/her degree of cancer, contributed to the results as well.
It is not yet confirmed that Omega-3 fish oil interferes with chemotherapy. However, it may still prove to be a contributing factor. Although doctors recommend not using Omega-3 after a cancer treatment session, they also encourage patients not to blame problems with chemotherapy on the dietary supplement.
These pills still offer great health benefits for most consumers. Just be sure to check in with your physician before adding any new supplements to your diet!
Feature Image Source: Jo Christian Oterhals
