Consuming omega-3 fatty acids is an essential part of any health regimen, numerous health authorities have stated. These unsaturated fats encourage good heart health and reduce inflammation. Now, scientists are saying that high-density lipoprotein (HDL) – the so-called good cholesterol that is boosted by omega-3s – may reduce the risk of colon cancer.

Research conducted in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study found that individuals who have higher levels of HDL are less likely to develop the form of cancer, and the more HDL the better.

Specifically, scientists determined that for each 16.6 milligram-per-deciliter increase in HDL, participants has a 22 percent lower chance of developing bowel cancer.

More than 140,000 Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year, according to the National Cancer Institute. Another 51,000 die of the disease in the same time period.

A 2000 study in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine associated omega-3 consumption with higher HDL levels. To ensure healthy levels of HDL, many experts recommend taking supplements that provide a daily dose of omega-3s. These supplements often contain fish oil, a rich source of the fatty acid.