STOCKHOLM: Omega-3 fatty acids, often taken to boost health, appear to increase the risk of childhood allergies and prostate cancer, according to two studies unveiled yesterday.
Newborns with high levels of unsaturated fats in their blood were more prone to develop an allergy than those with lower blood concentrations, according to a probe by three Swedish universities.
“It is already known that unsaturated fatty acids inhibit activation of the immune system. This can be useful when you are old,” Agnes Wold, a physician at the clinical microbiology department of Gothenburg’s Sahlgrenska University Hospital, said in a statement.
“But the baby’s immune system needs to get a kick start, otherwise it does not develop properly,” she said.
Previous research has indicated that children who at an early age were given fish, which is famously high in omega-3 fatty acids, were less likely to get an allergy.
Another author of the study, food science professor Ann-Sofie Sandberg, cautioned against avoiding fish on the basis of these findings.
“Fish is so much more than just omega-3 fatty acids. One cannot conclude from our study that pregnant women and young children should not eat fish,” she said.
Separately, a large study published in Britain’s Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that three omega-3 fatty acids were associated with an increase of between 43 and 71 percent in the risk of developing prostate cancer.
The biggest increase in risk was for so-called high-grade prostate cancer, whose tumors are more likely to be fatal.
The study, led by scientists at the US Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, amplifies previous findings in 2011 that suggested these fatty acids play an unexplained role in initiating prostate cancer.
Omega-3 acids linked to child allergies, prostate risk
Omega-3 acids linked to child allergies, prostate risk
Where We Are Going Today: The Terrace in Jeddah
- Desserts at The Terrace follow classic lines, with options like profiteroles, cardamom creme brulee, tiramisu and pavlova
The Terrace by The Good Butcher, overseen by food entrepreneur and chef Basma El-Khereiji, is a new seaside spot that combines casual dining with live music and pop-up events.
Located next to Movenpick Jeddah Al-Nawras in Ash Shati, the setting offers an open view of the water, making it a relaxed place to spend an afternoon or evening.
The menu focuses heavily on burgers, with options ranging from the double and triple smashed cheeseburgers, to the more elaborate truffle and wagyu burgers.
I tried a selection of the smashed burgers and found the beef to be well cooked and the seasoning balanced, though the triple cheeseburger felt slightly heavy with all the toppings combined.
The crispy chicken burger and chicken Caesar burger provided alternatives to red meat, with straightforward preparation and familiar flavors. Sides such as parmesan and truffle fries, paired with sauces like cheddar, BBQ and truffle mayo, complemented the mains.
Desserts at The Terrace follow classic lines, with options like profiteroles, cardamom creme brulee, tiramisu and pavlova. I tried the cardamom creme brulee and the pavlova. The creme brulee had a smooth, creamy texture, with a delicate hint of cardamom that was noticeable, and the caramelized top added a satisfying contrast.
The pavlova offered crisp meringue with a soft interior, paired with a light mascarpone cream and fresh berries, providing a mix of textures in each bite. Both desserts were consistent with their descriptions and well prepared.
One of the standout options on the beverage menu is the spicy bull heart, a tomato-based drink that combines tomato juice with lemon, Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of salt and pepper.
The menu also includes gin and tonics with a choice of tonics, as well as signature cocktails like wooden smoke house and sunny land, each bringing a unique combination of ingredients and infusions.
The beverage menu introduces new and unexpected flavors, encouraging guests to explore and try something they may never have tasted before, all while enjoying the seaside setting and relaxed ambiance.
Check @theterrace.sa for more information.
