Breast cancer occurs when a specific population of cells grows uncontrollably and accumulates in the breast lobules, forming tumors. When cancerous cells break away from the primary tumor, they begin to invade nearby healthy tissues or spread to distant organs. Several studies have investigated the relationship between dietary fat and breast cancer. According to Harvard School of Public Health, eating a diet lower in fat may both help fight breast cancer and protect against it.
Flaxseed
Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil are particularly rich in alphalinolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid. According to the Iowa State University, alphalinolenic acid plays a role in the inhibition or prevention of breast cancer. Studies have also found that supplementing with 10 g, or 2-1/2 tbsp., of flaxseed per day provides maximum health benefits for people with breast cancer, adds the Iowa State University.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a hydrocarbon antioxidant that gives this fruiting vegetable its characteristic red color. Lycopene has been beneficial in combating breast cancer, according to University of Michigan Health System.
Soybeans
Estrogen poses a breast cancer risk, according to the Cornell University, stimulating the growth and proliferation of hormonally responsive breast cancer cells. Studies show that soybeans or soy products contain naturally occurring substances called phytoestrogens, which act as estrogen inhibitors. Phytoestrogens may be beneficial in combating breast cancer, adds Cornell University.
Foods Containing Vitamin C
Foods high in Vitamin C, such as tomatoes, oranges and green peppers, have been shown to have breast cancer-fighting properties, according to the Stanford Medicine Cancer Center. Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin. The body does not store Vitamin C in appreciable amounts, and it must be replenished each day by external sources. Vitamin C is a recognized dietary antioxidant that can prevent free radical damage in the body. Free radicals are suspected to cause cellular damage, causing a number of maladies, including cancer.
Foods Containing Beta Carotene
For years, researchers have believed that eating foods high in beta carotene, like dark leafy vegetables and yellow orange fruits, can combat against breast cancer, notes Stanford Medicine. Beta carotene is known to bolster the body's immune system by stimulating the growth and reproduction of white blood cells, the building blocks of immune response. An enhanced immune system may help destroy breast cancer cells and prevent tumors from spreading to other parts of the body.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Cornell University: Estrogen & Breast Cancer Risk: Factors of Exposure
- Iowa State University: The Health Benefits of Functional Foods
- University of Michigan Health System
- OncoLink: Breast Cancer: The Basics
- Harvard School of Public Health: The Nutrition Source Low-Fat Diet Not a Cure-All
