Keto diet with fish oil supplementation linked to reduced risk of lung cancer in mice

Ketogenic diets are being studied for their potential role in cancer prevention, as new research in mice suggests that the types of fat consumed can impact the effectiveness of a diet associated with a lower risk of cancer. Experts recommend following established dietary guidelines to lower cancer risk, with the keto diet being a very low-carb, high-fat diet that aims to trigger ketosis, a metabolic state where the body uses fat for energy instead of glucose. This diet has been studied for managing epilepsy, diabetes, and obesity, with researchers investigating its potential benefits for treating other chronic conditions like cancer by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.

A recent study conducted by BC Cancer and the BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute in British Columbia, Canada, published in Scientific Reports, explored the anti-cancer effects of keto diets in mice. The study evaluated the impact of seven different fat-enriched keto diets on lung nodules induced by a cancer-causing agent. The findings revealed that keto diets, regardless of the type of fats included, were more effective in preventing lung nodules in mice compared to Western and 15% carbohydrate diets. A keto diet enriched with fish oil was found to be particularly effective in preventing lung cancer nodules, possibly due to the increase in specific omega-3 fatty acids.

Experts believe that keto diets may inhibit cancer cell growth by reducing the availability of glucose, which tumors rely on for their glycolytic processes. The fish oil-enriched keto diet was found to enhance ketosis and regulate cell cycles, potentially stopping the formation of lung tumor nodules. However, concerns regarding the effects of keto diets on cardiovascular health remain, as high-fat diets may increase harmful lipid levels. While initial studies show promise in using keto diets for at-risk populations, more human research is necessary before recommending them for cancer prevention.

To reduce cancer risk, experts suggest focusing on whole foods and healthy fats, including omega-3s. Instead of adopting a keto diet, which lacks sufficient evidence for cancer prevention, individuals should adhere to established guidelines recommended by the American Cancer Society. These guidelines emphasize maintaining a healthy weight, an active lifestyle, and a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds while limiting processed foods and red meats. Overall, the study highlights the potential benefits of keto diets and omega-3 fatty acids in cancer prevention strategies, stressing the importance of consuming healthier types of fats for optimal health outcomes.

While the types of fat consumed in keto diets matter, preventing cancer through diet is a complex issue that involves multiple factors such as physical activity, lifestyle, and genetic predisposition. Individuals should adopt multiple health-promoting behaviors to reduce cancer risk related to diet and lifestyle. Before making any dietary changes, it is recommended to discuss the keto diet with a medical doctor or registered dietitian. Ultimately, there are better dietary recommendations available for cancer prevention, such as plant-based and Mediterranean dietary patterns, that are more satisfying, sustainable, and evidence-based than the keto diet.