Results from the latest study in the U.S. showed that consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids is beneficial for women diagnosed with breast cancer. Omega – 3 fatty acids reduce fatigue and increase energy, and these beneficial nutrients are mostly contained in fatty fish like salmon, tuna and mackerel.
Fatigue is the most common side effect of chemotherapy (loss of strength). This health condition can be very frustrating for the patient. Fatigue sometimes appears even after resting and sleeping.
It may last for weeks or even months after finishing chemotherapy treatment, so it is often called “chronic fatigue”. Most patient establish their usual activity and energy after 6 to 12 months after chemotherapy treatment.
Even though it is still not clear what causes long lasting fatigue in patients treated for cancer, scientists believe that chronic inflammation in the body is the main reason.
“The results of our research clearly showed that increased intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids reduces inflammation, and also physical aspects of fatigue,” said Dr. Rachel Ballard-Barbash.
The results of this research results were published in the scientific journal “Journal of Clinical Oncology”.