Udo Erasmus, pioneer of essential fatty acids, EFA's, omega-3, omega fats, Udo's Choice, Udo's Oil, cold-pressed flax-seed oil, trans-fats, Trans Fatty acids
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Does Flax Oil Promote Prostate Cancer?
Udo Erasmus, PhD

Consumers, retailers, and health care practitioners, have been told that flax oil, an excellent source of omega-3 essential fats, can promote prostate cancer. Based on my 20 years of experience researching fats and health, I believe the 'research' is questionable and the conclusions wrong.

Studies have also shown a protective effect of essential fatty acids against prostate and other cancers. What's more, there are other, more likely causes of prostate cancer, including lack of balance between omega-3 and omega-6 essential fats, damage done to omega-3 during harsh processing, toxins from synthetic packages, and lack of protective antioxidants and dietary phytosterols (plant compounds).

This is the SUMMARY VERSION.

 

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are substances from fats that must come from foods because the body absolutely needs them but cannot make them. EFAs are either omega-3s or omega-6s. It doesn't make sense that the same substances with a long history of anti-cancer benefits should also be responsible for causing cancer.

To protect my prostate, I use an omega-3-rich flax oil daily in a blend with other omega-6-rich oils (sunflower and sesame) to get the proper omega-3 to omega-6 ratio and prevent deficiencies. I avoid plastic packaging to prevent leeching of toxic chemicals and insist on an oil blend packed in brown glass, further protected by a box to keep out all light, as well as refrigerated in factory, store, and home to extend freshness.

I use and recommend zinc, selenium, antioxidants, phytosterols, saw palmetto, broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables, anti-inflammatory herbs, and maitake extracts or mushrooms as part of a prostate-nourishing nutritional program.

 

I use and recommend optimum intake of all components of health: 20 minerals, 14 vitamins, eight to 11 essential amino acids, two essential fatty acids, detoxifying fiber, digestive enzymes, probiotics (friendly bowel microorganisms), antioxidants, herbs (phytonutrients), filtered water, clean air, and sunlight.

I engage in and recommend physical activity (work or exercise) to stay fit.

I indulge myself in and recommend rest, sufficient sleep, recreation, the passionate pursuit of worthwhile goals, time spent with friends, a sense of humor, good balance between work and play, heart-felt gratitude, and faith in the grand scheme of things.

This is the SUMMARY VERSION.



 

 
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