Explore dietary choices that can reduce the risk of breast cancer with Meri Sehat. Empower yourself with proactive health measures.

Is There A Diet That Can Reduce The Risk Of Breast Cancer?

A healthy lifestyle, and a balanced diet can help lower the risk of many diseases including breast cancer.

Introduction

<a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/breast-cancer">Breast cancer</a> is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>. According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer accounts for 11.7% of all cancer cases and 6.9% of all cancer deaths in women<a href="#accordion">[8]</a>.

While there is no single food or diet that can cure breast cancer, adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle can help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>. 
&nbsp;

Some foods that may help in reducing the risk include:

<ol>
	<li>Whole Grains: Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread, are high in fiber and other nutrients that can help reduce the risk of cancer.</li>
	<li>Lean Proteins: Lean proteins, such as chicken, fish, and legumes, are an important part of a healthy diet. Some studies suggest that a diet high in lean proteins may help reduce the risk of breast cancer.</li>
	<li>Herbs And Spices: Many herbs and spices, such as turmeric, garlic, and ginger, support patients during cancer treatment.</li>
	<li>Cruciferous Vegetables: Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale, may help reduce the risk of breast cancer.</li>
	<li>Berries: Berries, such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries, are rich in antioxidants that can help protect the body against cancer.</li>
	<li>Green Tea: Green tea contains compounds that are considered beneficial for breast cancer patients. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ol>

Understanding Diet's Role in Breast Cancer Risk Reduction

developing breast cancer. These include:

<ol>
	<li>Processed Foods: Processed foods, such as fast food, snacks, and processed meats, are often high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. These foods contribute to inflammation in the body, which may increase the risk of cancer.</li>
	<li>Red And Processed Meats: Red and processed meats, such as beef, pork, and hot dogs, contain compounds that have been shown to increase the risk of cancer.</li>
	<li>Alcohol: Drinking has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ol>

<h5>Foods That Lower Estrogen</h5>

Increased blood levels of Estrogen (Estradiol) is considered a risk factor for breast cancer. Therefore, it&rsquo;s recommended to eat foods that lower estrogen levels including, flaxseed, soy, and cruciferous vegetables<a href="#accordion">[6]</a><a href="#accordion">[7]</a>. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Unconventional Foods</h5>

Beta-glucans, a class of complex carbohydrates found in specific mushroom species, have been demonstrated to stimulate the immune system and possibly slow the growth of tumors.

According to recent research, premenopausal women who regularly ate mushrooms had a lower risk of getting breast cancer than those who did not.

While additional research is necessary to fully appreciate the potential of mushrooms in breast cancer prevention and treatment, these findings suggest that including mushrooms in the diet may be an easy and natural method to lower breast cancer risk<a href="#accordion">[9</a>]<a href="#accordion">[10]</a>. 
&nbsp;

NOTE: While some foods may have possible advantages for both preventing and treating breast cancer, they shouldn&#39;t be used in place of traditional medical care. Talk to your doctor before incorporating any food in your diet. 
&nbsp;

Eating a healthy diet during cancer treatment is important for maintaining strength and energy, and for supporting the body&#39;s natural healing process. Here are some tips for eating a healthy diet during cancer treatment:

<ol>
	<li>Eat Small, Frequent Meals: Eating small, frequent meals throughout the day can help avoid nausea and other digestive issues.</li>
	<li>Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids, including water and herbal tea, can help reduce the side effects of cancer treatment, such as dehydration and constipation.</li>
</ol>

<ol start="3">
	<li>Eat Nutrient-Dense Foods: Eating foods that are high in nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, can help support the body during cancer treatment.</li>
	<li>Avoid Foods That Cause Discomfort: Some cancer treatments cause digestive issues, such as nausea and vomiting. Avoiding foods that trigger these symptoms can help reduce discomfort. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ol>

Conclusion

&nbsp;A healthy lifestyle, and a balanced diet can help lower the risk of many diseases including breast cancer.&nbsp; A diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can improve general health and reduce inflammation in the body. At the same time, it&rsquo;s important to reduce the intake or quit consuming processed foods, red and processed meats. It&rsquo;s best to consult a licensed dietitian in this regard as they can offer individualized advice and support. 
&nbsp;

Key Takeaways

<ul>
	<li>According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer accounts for 11.7% of all cancer cases and 6.9% of all cancer deaths in women</li>
	<li>Whole grains, berries, flaxseed, and cruciferous vegetables can help reduce the risk of cancer.</li>
	<li>Processed foods, such as fast food, snack foods, alcohol, and processed meats contribute to inflammation in the body, which may increase the risk of cancer.</li>
</ul>

[1] World Health Organization. Breast Cancer.

[2] American Cancer Society. Diet and Physical Activity: What’s the Cancer Connection?

[3] National Cancer Institute. Acupuncture (PDQ)–Patient Version.

[4] American Cancer Society. Yoga.

[5] National Cancer Institute. Massage Therapy (PDQ)–Patient Version.

[6] American Cancer Society. Soy and Breast Cancer Risk.

[7] American Cancer Society. Flaxseed.

[8] Breast Cancer Screening Fact Sheet. World Health Organization.

[9] Shin A, Kim J, Lim SY, et al. Dietary mushroom intake and the risk of breast cancer based on hormone receptor status. Nutr Cancer. 2010;62(4):476-483. doi:10.1080/01635580903441212

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