Which Types of Fish Can Help Prevent Cancer?
Disease description:
It’s commonly said that eating fish is beneficial for health and may even help prevent cancer. However, there are so many types of fish that I’m unsure which ones offer such benefits—so I’d like to ask: Which types of fish have anticancer properties?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Lei
Certain fish are believed to possess potential anticancer properties due to their specific nutritional composition. Omega-3 fatty acids—a class of polyunsaturated fatty acids—abound in deep-sea fish such as salmon, mackerel, trout, sea bass, and sturgeon. These omega-3 fatty acids exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help reduce the risk of certain cancers. Additionally, selenium and vitamin D—both found in some fish—are associated with reduced cancer risk. Selenium, an important antioxidant present in certain marine fish (e.g., tuna and cod), may help prevent cellular damage and inhibit cancer development. Vitamin D is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, and fish such as salmon and mackerel are excellent dietary sources of this nutrient. However, anticancer effects do not stem from any single food or nutrient alone; rather, they reflect the cumulative benefits of a healthy diet and lifestyle. Incorporating a variety of omega-3-rich fish into one’s diet—as part of an overall balanced and nutritious eating pattern—can contribute to lowering cancer risk.
