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Cancer can be defined as uncontrolled division of cells. Occurrence of malignant cells inside the body is quite a common phenomenon.
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However, these diseased cells are regularly detected by the efficient immune system and are removed. In rare instances, malignant cells tend to evade the immune-surveillance mechanism of the immune system, a process that ultimately results in cancer.
With the rapid advancements in the field of medicine, several therapeutic methods are now available for treating patients with cancer. Some of these methods include chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy. Apart from these, diet plays a phenomenal role in improving the immune system of the body to fight against malignant cells. Specialized diet is important for dogs undergoing treatment for cancer. A controlled and nutritional diet helps in avoiding side effects caused due to malignant cells and also those caused during treatment.
One important nutritional supplement that has been found useful in fighting cancer is the fish oil. Fish oil contain a unique mixture of Omega 3, 6 and 9 polyunsaturated fatty acids that are helpful in inhibiting the production of cholesterol and increasing the concentration of High-density lipoprotein levels inside the body. There are several mechanisms that have been proposed to explain the anticancer effects of fish oil. Fish oil prevents cancer inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins, a unique set of cellular factors that can stimulate tumor growth. Fish oils stimulate the immune system, alter hormone profiles and reduce tumor cell toxicity by causing lipid peroxidation in the tumor cells. Experiments have revealed that Omega-3 fatty acids inhibit the synthesis of leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are factors whose role has been suggested in the suppression of apoptosis, stimulation of angiogenesis, stimulation of tumor cell adhesion and metastases.
In a study conducted on dogs, fish oil has shown to lower the levels of lactic acid and insulin found during cancer. Fish oils also reduce the levels of cytokines that can promote inflammation and growth of cancer. Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to sensitize cancer cells to doxorubicin, an effective anti-cancer drug.
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