A healthy diet can be helpful in preventing breast cancer. Though it's not a fool-proof method of avoiding the disease, some studies show that there is a connection between food and the occurrence of breast cancer. Read these helpful tips and resources for more information.
Breast Cancer and Food
Breast cancer is frightening because so little is currently known about the disease, which has five-year survival rates of 86% and ten-year survival rates of 76%. Although studies are not yet conclusive on the matter of preventive diets to ward off breast cancer, scientists have discovered links between certain foods and lower rates of breast cancer.
High-Fiber Diet
One place to start is to incorporate fiber into your diet. Studies have linked an increase of fiber in a woman’s diet to a decrease of estrogen levels in the body, which in turn lowers the risk of developing breast cancer. Replacing white bread and white rice with whole grain bread and brown rice can dramatically increase your amount of daily fiber intake, as can the incorporation of beans and other high-fiber foods into your diet.
Fruits & Vegetables
Another helper in the fight against breast cancer is the regular consumption of fruits and vegetables. Every day, scientists are discovering new and promising nutrients in fruits and vegetables that help to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer in all women, but you do not have to wait until they have been discovered. Start eating more fruits and vegetables right away to reap the benefits of the healthy foods.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in most kinds of fresh fish, can also have a positive effect in warding off breast cancer. Other helpers include flaxseed oil, green tea, soy products, and low-fat dairy products for their anticancer nutrients and minerals that may help to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.
Importance of Water
Water is also very important. By consuming eight to ten glasses of water per day, the body has the tools it needs to remove toxins from the body – even cancer causing toxins. Additionally, getting sufficient amount of sunlight is a good complement to a healthy diet and the sunlight is able to provide cancer preventing vitamins.
Studies Related to Diet and Breast Cancer
Several medical studies and clinical trials have taken place investigating the connection between diet and breast cancer prevention and relapse. Use these resources for more information.