A positive attitude can help you in all walks of life, and even in cancer. A new study done by the Israel Institute of Technology shows that positive emotions can be helpful in fighting cancer.

The new study, titled Modulation of anti-tumour immunity by the brain’s reward system, was published in the science journal Nature. It claims that there is a deep connection between the patient’s mental state and cancer survival.

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What the study shows

The study was conducted on mice and explored the role of the brain’s reward system in fighting tumours. According to the study, some immune cell subsets like Myeloid Derived Suppressor Cells (MDSCs), support tumour growth by suppressing the anti-tumour immune response and by generating a favourable environment for the tumour. MDSC is one of the regulators of your body’s immune system.

The scientists added that though similar studies have given inconsistent results, and most research has focused on negative emotional states, such as stress and depression, the impact of a positive mental state on cancer biology is largely unknown.

What previous studies have shown

* A study done by Yale University shows that older persons who have acquired positive beliefs about old age from their surrounding culture are less likely to develop dementia.

* According to research done by Weill Cornell Medicine, a ketogenic diet may improve the effectiveness of an emerging class of cancer drugs. Low in carbohydrates and high in fats, a ketogenic diet, or keto diet, is good for those who looking to lose weight.

* A study done by the University of Illinois shows that Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish like salmon and mackerel, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds and canola oil, can also help inhibit the growth of cancer.

(With inputs from ANI)

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