Combining a diet containing high doses of vitamin D3 and omega-3 fatty acids with minimal muscle training at home may reduce the risk of cancer in the elderly. That’s according to a new study from Zurich.
Each of the three components of the “prescription” in itself has a positive effect in preventing cancer in people over 70 years of age. Their combination makes it possible to significantly increase the desired effect: the threefold measure reduces the risk of developing cancer by 61%, as indicated on Friday by the University of Zurich, which conducted this study.
Vitamin D inhibits the growth of cancer cells. Omega-3 fatty acid slows the transformation of normal cells into cancer cells. Exercise improves immune function and reduces inflammation, which also helps prevent cancer.
Three safe and cheap measures
Taken together, these three measures can reduce a significant proportion of cancer in the elderly because they are very safe and inexpensive, said Heike Bischoff Ferrari, a professor and researcher in geriatrics at the University of Zurich, citing the press release. A total of 2,157 guinea pigs participated in the three-year study in Switzerland, France, Germany, Austria and Portugal.
The researcher notes that “apart from preventive recommendations such as sun protection or no smoking, public health efforts to prevent cancer have been limited to date.” And in middle-aged adults, they are referred to checkups and vaccinations.
Further studies are needed to further verify the potential of combined prophylaxis and to account for longer observation periods. Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the elderly. The risk of suffering from it increases with age.
ATS / fgn
“Music fanatic. Professional problem solver. Reader. Award-winning TV ninja.”