Breast cancer will strike one out of every eight women at some point during their lives, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). While the risk of developing breast cancer cannot be completely eliminated, it can be minimized through compliance with a healthy diet.
Risk Factors
In many cases, breast cancer grows and develops based off sensitivity to the female hormone estrogen. Risk factors for developing breast cancer include age, a family history of the disease, and the early onset puberty. While men can get breast cancer, women are 100 times more likely to develop this condition, reports the NIH.
Symptoms
In its early stages, breast cancer produces few noticeable symptoms. Being proactive in medical checkups and breast examinations can catch cancer before it develops into a serious threat. When symptoms do appear, they include an alternation in the shape, size or feel of a breast; a lump in the breast or armpit; and a pus-like discharge from the nipple. Later stage symptoms of breast cancer are localized pain in the breasts or bones and unexplained weight loss.
Anti-Cancer Diet
According to the American Cancer Society, you should stick to a diet rich in plant-based foods for the best shot at avoiding cancer. At least two-thirds of your plate at every meal should contain fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limit your consumption of fat to no more than 30 percent of your total daily calories, while avoiding saturated and trans fats whenever possible.
Anti-Cancer Foods
Certain foods are exceptionally good at staving off breast cancer, reports the American Institute for Cancer Research. Berries of all types are rich in ellagic acid, which is a phytochemical shown to prevent breast cancer in laboratory studies. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and kale also have been shown to fight breast cancer, along with other dark leafy greens, which can prevent the growth of breast cancer cells.
Post-Cancer Diet
If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, it is not too late to adopt a healthier diet. Generally speaking, aim to consume at least one fruit and one vegetable with every meal while eating most of your protein from "white meat" sources such as chicken and turkey. Cornell University recommends that breast cancer survivors eat soy-based foods only in moderation. Be certain to consume plenty of health monounsaturated fats, like those found in olive oil and nuts.
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