Consumption of miniature fish reduces the risk of all-cause mortality and cancer death: study

A recent study found that including miniature fish in your diet reduces the risk of death from all causes.

A group of researchers in Japan have discovered the potential life-prolonging benefits of simply eating miniature fish eaten whole, especially for women. Their research results were published in the journal Public Health Nutrition.

“Previous research has shown a protective effect of fish consumption on health outcomes, including mortality risk. However, few studies have focused on the health effects of miniature fish consumption. I became interested in this topic because I had a habit of eating miniature fish since childhood. Now I feed my children this food,” said lead researcher Dr. Chinatsu Kasahara in: Press Release.

The study assessed the eating habits of 80,802 participants in Japan, of which 34,555 were men and 46,247 were women. All study participants were between 35 and 69 years ancient.

Using a food frequency questionnaire at baseline, researchers estimated the frequency of miniature fish consumption among participants. They were then followed for an average of nine years. During this period, there were 2,482 deaths, 60% of which were cancer-related.

Scientists noticed that among women who habitually ate miniature fish, there was a significant reduction in overall and cancer mortality. This association persisted even after controlling for other factors that influence mortality, including participants’ age, smoking and alcohol consumption habits, BMI, and intake of various nutrients and foods.

“Women who eat miniature fish 1-3 times a month, 1-2 times a week, or 3 times or more a week had 0.68, 0.72, and 0.69 times greater risk of all-cause mortality and 0. 72, 0.71 and 0.64 times greater risk of cancer mortality compared to people who rarely eat miniature fish,” reads the press release.

A similar pattern was observed among men, although the results were not statistically significant. The study did not delve into the reason for the different benefits observed between men and women. However, potential factors such as differences in the number of participants and lack of measurement of portion sizes of miniature fish consumed may contribute to this discrepancy.

“Compact fish are uncomplicated for anyone to eat and can be eaten whole, including the head, bones and organs. Nutrients and physiologically lively substances specific to miniature fish may contribute to good health. The inverse association between miniature fish consumption and mortality risk in women highlights the importance of these nutrient-rich foods in people’s diets, Dr. Kasahara explained.