Summary
Highlights
A healthy gut microbiome improves the body's ability to fight cancer. Research shows that mice with a rich microbiome exhibit smaller tumors when treated with immunotherapy compared to those with a poor microbiome.
Certain microbiomes produce FAD, a cofactor derived from vitamin B2, which signals adipocytes to produce more polyunsaturated fats, particularly DHA. This omega-3 fatty acid appears to act as a potent ally when paired with cancer-fighting immunotherapy.
Studies indicate that, paradoxically, overweight patients sometimes show better cancer survival rates, which researchers link to the increased FAD production and fatty acid modulation associated with specific gut microbiomes.
Directly supplementing with DHA omega-3s alongside immunotherapy improves treatment outcomes in preclinical models. While emerging human data is encouraging, further clinical trials are necessary to conclusively determine the role of omega-3 supplementation in cancer therapy.