Here at the practice, we're passionate about Prevention Dentistry. We believe that taking proactive steps to maintain your oral health can have a significant impact on your overall well-being. That's why we're excited to share some recent research on the link between Omega-3 fatty acids and a reduced risk of oral cancer.
What are Omega-3s
Omega-3s are essential fatty acids that play a vital role in maintaining overall health, including oral health. They've been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, which may explain their potential to reduce the risk of oral cancer.
A recent study published in the journal "Cancer Prevention Research" found that people who consumed high levels of Omega-3s had a significantly lower risk of developing oral cancer compared to those who consumed low levels. The study followed over 400,000 participants for an average of 10 years and found that those who consumed the most Omega-3s had a 30% lower risk of developing oral cancer.
So, how can you incorporate more Omega-3s into your diet?
•
Fatty fish: Salmon, tuna, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources of Omega-3s. Aim to eat at least two servings of fatty fish per week.
•
Plant-based sources: Walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and soybeans also contain Omega-3s. You can add these to your diet in various ways, such as sprinkling them on salads, adding them to smoothies, or using them in baking.
•
Supplements: If you don't eat much fish or plant-based sources of Omega-3s, you can consider taking a supplement. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to determine the appropriate dosage for you.
In addition to incorporating Omega-3s into your diet, there are other important steps you can take to reduce your risk of oral cancer:
•
Quit smoking: Smoking is the leading cause of oral cancer. Quitting smoking is the single most important thing you can do to reduce your risk.
•
Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption is another major risk factor for oral cancer. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
•
See your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups are essential for early detection of oral cancer. During your checkups, your dentist will examine your mouth for any suspicious lesions or abnormalities.
•
Perform self-examinations: Regularly examine your mouth for any changes in color, texture, or size of the tissues. Report any suspicious changes to your dentist promptly.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing oral cancer. Remember, prevention is always better than treatment.
Note: This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult with your dentist or healthcare provider for advice on your specific situation.
Talk to one of our caring patient coordinators today to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Frank Sioda 18676 Willamette Dr. Suite 202 West Linn, OR 97068-1718
Dental Blog | Dentist West Linn | ZenTech Dentistry Dr. Frank Sioda of ZenTech Dentistry has created this informative blog to help educate the community about a variety of dental topics. Learn more here. ZenTech Dentistry - Frank K. Sioda, DMD, PC, 18676 Willamette Dr., Suite 202, West Linn, OR 97068-1718 ~ (503) 765-9699 ~ zentechdentistry.com ~ 10/6/2024 ~ Key Phrases: dentist West Linn ~
Appointment
(503) 765-9699
Here at the practice, we're passionate about Prevention Dentistry. We believe that taking proactive steps to maintain your oral health can have a significant impact on your overall well-being. That's why we're excited to share some recent research on the link between Omega-3 fatty acids and a reduced risk of oral cancer.