The second most common cause of death in the US in 2013 was still cancer. This means that cancer accounts for almost 1 in 4 fatalities. Although there is no known cure for breast cancer, it is thought that dietary fats may have a small but discernible role in lowering your risk of developing the disease.
You can easily incorporate the diet changes suggested below into your diet plan.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Limit red meat and processed foods from
your diet, and increase consumption of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish and
fish oils, a lean protein source, is a great addition to a breast cancer
prevention plan. Fish highest in omega-3 fatty acids include salmon,
mackerel, sea bass, and tuna.
Add Flaxseed to Your Diet
Another
healthy fat you should add to your diet is ground flaxseed. Ground
(milled) flaxseed has a component called lignans. Lignans have
estrogen-like chemicals that allow them to act as antioxidants “free
radical scavengers.”
Walnuts for Nutrients
Walnuts
offer a lot of nutrients and omega-3 fatty acids that help fight
inflammation. Researchers even suggest that walnuts may be able to slow
down breast cancer tumors which means it could serve as a preventative
food and management after diagnosis.
Orange Fruits and Vegetables
Orange
fruits and vegetables are a rich source of Vitamin A (carotenoids)
known to be a benefit in breast cancer prevention. Women with high
levels of carotenoids in the bloodstream tend to have a lower risk of
breast cancer, so make sure you increase your consumption of orange,
red, yellow, and dark leafy green foods.
Berries, Berries, Berries
Blueberries,
blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries are sweet, delicious, and
full of rich colors. They are also filled with vitamins, minerals, and
antioxidants known to aid breast cancer prevention.
Green and White Tea
According
to Vann (n.d.), “Green tea and white tea both contain catechins,
extracts that seem to show some benefit in breast cancer prevention.
Research suggests that green tea is particularly effective at protecting
your cells against environmental exposures that might increase the risk
for cancer (12 Foods for Breast Cancer Prevention).”
As research
improves and scientists continue to work towards a cure for cancer find
some comfort in knowing that there are preventative measures you can
take. Exercise daily, drink lots of water and eat a diet rich in
colorful fruits and vegetables, beans, and grains instead of
supplements.
Reference:
Vann, M. (n.d.). 12 Foods for Breast Cancer Prevention. Retrieved from http://www.everydayhealth.com/breast-cancer-pictures/foods-for-breast-cancer-prevention.aspx#/slide-15