Dear Self-Health Advocate,
It’s great to be back writing after taking a short break to host the
Online Prostate Cancer Summit and to speak at the
A4M Longevity Fest Conference on
Herbal Medicine and Testosterone Production. While in Las Vegas for A4M, I came across a newly published study on
fish oils and prostate cancer, which I’ll share
with you shortly.
Welcome to New Summit Members
First, I want to extend a warm welcome to all the
new members of the “Dr. Geo” and
XY Wellness online community. Whether you’re here to improve prostate health, optimize testosterone, or simply live a fuller life as you age, you’re in the right place. I typically send out weekly updates, tools, and insights to help you take control of your health. Many in this community are
self-health advocates committed to living better through knowledge and action, and I’m honored to have you here. Of course, if at any time you feel these emails aren’t serving your needs, you can
unsubscribe easily using the link at the bottom of each email—because I hate spam as much as you do!
What About Fish Oils and Prostate Cancer?
Since 2013, I’ve addressed concerns about fish oil supplements and prostate cancer after a widely reported study by
Brasky et al. The media made alarming claims that fish oils
caused prostate cancer, but here’s the truth:
- The study did not show that fish oils cause prostate cancer.
- It found only a weak association, which itself was flawed and unreliable.
Why the Brasky Study is Problematic
- No Causation: The study measured omega-3 levels from a single blood test, which reflects short-term intake, not long-term habits.
- No Data on Fish Oil: It didn’t ask participants about fish oil supplements or diet, so blaming fish oil is pure speculation.
- Unreliable Testing: The study used plasma phospholipid levels, which fluctuate quickly. For better accuracy, RBC omega-3 levels should be measured.
The Brasky study made headlines but doesn’t hold up to scrutiny. It caused unnecessary fear, leading some prostate cancer patients to avoid fish oils—despite their proven
heart health benefits and potential role in cancer management.
The Latest Study: CAPFISH-3 Trial
The
CAPFISH-3 trial, a phase II clinical study, offers promising new evidence. Researchers looked at the effects of a
high omega-3, low omega-6 diet combined with fish oil supplements in men on
active surveillance (AS) for prostate cancer.
Key Findings After One Year:
- Ki-67 Index (a marker for tumor growth):
- Decreased by 15% in the fish oil group.
- Increased by 24% in the control group.
- Omega-6 to Omega-3 Balance:
- Omega-6 intake dropped, and omega-3 levels rose (confirmed by RBC testing).
- Other Benefits:
- Lower triglycerides and reduced levels of a pro-inflammatory cytokine.
Final Thoughts & Actionable Takeaways
When it comes to nutrition and prostate cancer, there’s no magic food or pill that causes or cures it. However, this study suggests that a high omega-3, low omega-6 diet, along with fish oil supplements, may help slow prostate cancer growth.
Here’s what I recommend:
- Focus on Whole Foods: Eat more omega-3-rich foods like salmon, sardines, walnuts, and flaxseeds. Cut back on processed and fried foods high in omega-6 oils.
- Exercise Regularly: Pairing nutrition with physical activity is key to improving outcomes.
- Track Your Omega-6 to Omega-3 Ratio: Ask your doctor to test your RBC omega-3 index. I aim for a ratio of about 2:1 for my patients.
The fear surrounding fish oils and prostate cancer was never justified, and new studies like CAPFISH-3 continue to show their potential benefits. Stay informed, take action, and remember: optimizing your health is about
balance, not extremes.
Thank you for being part of this community. I’m excited to continue sharing insights to help you
thrive despite prostate cancer and as you age!
- Reference: Aronson WJ, Grogan T, Liang P, Jardack P, Liddell AR, Perez C, Elashoff D, Said J, Cohen P, Marks LS, Henning SM. High Omega-3, Low Omega-6 Diet With Fish Oil for Men With Prostate Cancer on Active Surveillance: The CAPFISH-3 Randomized Clinical Trial. J Clin Oncol. 2024 Dec 13
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Fasting & Longevity Summit
Join me and many other experts on the science of fasting.
On this summit you will learn:
Slow Aging with Fasting-Mimicking Diets: Dr. Valter Longo reveals simple strategies to help you thrive and extend your healthy years.
Boost Brain Health: Dr. Drew Ramsey explains how fasting and brain-boosting foods can heal anxiety, depression, and fuel mental well-being.
Sleep for Longevity: Dr. Audrey Wells connects restful sleep, fasting, and living longer so you can recharge your body and mind.
Fasting vs. Cancer: Dr. Michael Karlfeldt shares breakthroughs on how fasting may disrupt cancer progression and provide hope.
Fasting for Women: Dr. Felice Gersh explores how women can fast differently for better hormonal health and balance.
Reverse Type 2 Diabetes: Dr. Jason Fung shows how fasting naturally improves blood sugar and metabolic health.
Fasting and Prostate Cancer: Dr. Geo Espinosa uncovers the role of fasting in supporting prostate health.
The summit will go on for free from January 7th to January to January 13th, 2025
Here is the Link to Register for the Fasting and Longevity Summit.
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Much Love!
Dr. Geo
P.S. Thank you for sharing this newsletter and the podcast with friends and family. In doing so, you are helping us with our vision of helping people improve their urological function and live better with age—much love and gratitude.