Breast cancer is among the top causes of death for women in America, killing almost 40,000 women and 400 men in the United States in 2010, according to the National Cancer Institute. The causes of breast cancer are many, ranging from genetics to environmental factors like exposure to cancer-causing agents and lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise. Research into the links between diet and breast cancer incidence has shed some light on the role of diet on breast cancer development.
Effect of Alcohol
Alcohol consumption, especially consuming large amounts of alcohol over a long period of time, may have an effect on your risk of developing breast cancer. A study conducted at Brown University in 2010 indicates that alcohol has an effect on the epigenetics of cancer -- the genes that cancer cells turn on or off to promote tumor development. This epigenetic profile helps doctors determine the aggressiveness of breast cancers, as well as the best ways to treat the disease. While the specific link between alcohol intake and breast cancer is not yet fully established and remains controversial, refraining from excess alcohol consumption may help reduce your risk of breast cancer.
Effect of High-fat Foods
Consuming a diet rich in high-fat foods may also affect breast cancer incidence. High-fat foods often contain large amounts of calories and may increase your risk of obesity, linked to breast cancer in post-menopausal women. In addition, Michigan State University says that women who consume a diet rich in high-fat foods during adolescence and puberty may face an increased incidence of breast cancer later in life. To help avoid this potential risk, prepare and serve meals rich in fresh produce, whole grains and lean proteins, instead of meals that contain high levels of saturated fats.
Effect of Soy
Soy products, such as tofu, soy milk and tempeh, may also have an effect on breast cancer incidence. Soy products contain phytoestrogens -- chemicals from the plant that behave similarly to estrogen when they enter your body. Estrogen signaling also plays a key role in the development of some types of breast cancer, with estrogen helping to drive cancer growth. According to Cornell University, women who consume foods containing phytoestrogens, including soy, have a reduced incidence of breast cancer, indicating that soy estrogens may have a protective effect against breast cancer development.
Effect of the Mediterranean Diet
In some cases, following a specific diet may affect your risk of developing breast cancer. The Harvard School of Public Health indicates that following the Mediterranean diet -- a healthy diet rich in unsaturated fat -- may decrease breast cancer incidence for some women. To follow the Mediterranean diet, consume several servings of vegetables and fruits daily, as well as fish, lean meats, nuts, olive oil and while grains, while avoiding red meat and dairy products, which contain saturated fat.
References
- National Cancer Institute: Breast Cancer
- Brown University: Study: Diet and Alcohol Alter Epigenetics of Breast Cancer, Could Predict Severity of Disease
- University of Michigan: High-fat Diet During Puberty Linked to Breast Cancer Risk Later in Life
- Cornell University: Estrogen & Breast Cancer Risk: Factors of Exposure
- Harvard School of Public Health: Nutrition News: Following Mediterranean Diet May Lower Breast Cancer Risk for Some Women
