The exact cause of breast cancer is unknown; however there seems to be a link between an excess exposure to the hormone estrogen and an increased risk for breast cancer. A proper diet and certain nutritional supplements can play a supporting role in maximizing quality of life in breast cancer sufferers and reducing the negative side effects associated with medical treatment.
Eat Organic, Whole Foods
The Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, or CSNN, recommends eating a whole food, organic diet that is rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, legumes and lean proteins. These foods are important because not only are they nutrient dense, they are also high in fiber, and CSNN says that a high fiber intake can promote regular elimination and bind to and eliminate excess unwanted hormones. Organic is important because Phyllis Balch says, in her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," that pesticides and other chemicals have been linked to breast cancer, and they may mimic the effect of estrogen in the body. Dairy should also be organic, and it should say hormone-free because many cows are injected with artificial hormones. Those hormones can be transferred to dairy foods, and their consumption is thought to promote the growth of cancer cells says Balch.
Garlic, Onions and Cruciferous Vegetables
A high intake of garlic and onions may help to reduce cancer cell replication, and CSNN encourages using them liberally in your cooking. Balch says that cruciferous vegetables are also beneficial to cancer sufferers, and CSNN says that their consumption can help to balance estrogen in the body. 1 to 2 servings a day may lower breast cancer risk by 20 to 40 percent. As such, CSNN recommends consuming Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli regularly.
Bright Yellow and Orange Vegetables
Bright yellow and orange vegetables such as carrots, pumpkin, squash, sweet potatoes, and red peppers, contain beta-carotene, which is a vitamin A derivative that is thought to support the immune system. Balch recommends consuming them often as well.
Soy Foods
Soy foods may also be beneficial because they have a weak estrogenic effect, which somehow seems to reduce the effect of the stronger, potentially dangerous form of estrogen known as estradiol, says CSNN. The school recommends consuming soy daily, and fresh soybeans, tempeh, soymilk, soy nuts, tofu, miso and soy powder are all good sources.
Essential Fatty Acids
Balch says that essential fatty acids, or EFAs, are also important and may reduce cancer risk, and she suggests consuming flaxseeds and cold water fish such as salmon, sardines, tuna and mackerel for their high omega-3 EFA content. Olive oil is a good source of omega-9 EFAs and is also encouraged.
Foods to Avoid
Finally, what you don't eat can be as important as what you do eat, and Balch recommends avoiding all alcohol, caffeine, junk foods, processed refined foods, saturated fats, salt, sugar and white flour. These foods are all nutrient devoid, and cancer patients need a steady intake of nutrient dense foods to support their immune systems during therapy.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing 3rd edition"; Phyllis Balch; 2003
- "Pathology and Nutrition"; The Canadian School of Natural Nutrition; Lilieana Stradler Mitrea; 2008
