One in eight, or 12 percent of women will develop breast cancer, making it the most commonly diagnosed cancer for women following skin cancer, according to BreastCancer.org. Nutrition for women dealing with breast cancer is a critical component to breast cancer treatment. Adopting eating habits that support weight maintenance and prevention of weight gain is the primary goal for nutrition therapy for young women with breast cancer. Weight gain in women with breast cancer is a determinant of success in overcoming cancer. A study in the February 2008 "Journal of the National Cancer Institute" explains that for every 11 pounds gained for a woman with breast cancer, there is a 14 percent increased risk of dying from breast cancer. All efforts should be made to maintain or lose weight while preserving nutrient stores.
Balanced Diet
For the early stages of breast cancer, nutrient needs and diet recommendations are not very different from people without breast cancer. However, meeting nutrient needs is important, especially if surgery is needed, to heal appropriately. To meet nutrient needs, a variety of foods should be consumed including a foundation of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein food sources to meet the needs of a balanced diet.
Nutrition Post-Operation
The quality of nutrition following surgery dictates speed of recovery. If surgery is needed, a diet high in protein is recommended for wound healing, according to "Today's Dietitian." Following surgery, goals for healing also include adequate fiber and fluids to prevent constipation. Preventing weight gain following surgery is another priority. This means consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products and protein food sources such as beans, chicken and fish.
Weight Loss and Maintenance
In women with breast cancer, weight loss is recommended if overweight. Weight gain is not uncommon during breast cancer due to lack of energy for exercise. Treatment and medications may encourage weight gain as a side effect. A weight loss of 0.5 pound per week is recommended for women with breast cancer six to eight weeks following surgery, explains "Today's Dietitian." Physical activity is encouraged to promote weight loss and maintain healthy weight.
Nutrition is Individual
For each woman with breast cancer, nutritional recommendations are very individualized. Seeking a registered dietitian with experience in cancer and nutrition will optimize nutrition status and speed healing following surgery. A good start is to consume 4 to 5 cups of fruits and vegetables daily, obtain 25 to 30g of fiber daily, consume cold-water fish such as Wild Alaskan salmon and walnuts for healthy fats, drink a minimum of 2 liters of water daily, participate in physical activity and limit alcohol consumption, explains "Nutrition and Diagnosis-Related Care" by Sylvia Escott-Stump, RD.
References
- BreastCancer.org: Breast Cancer Statistics
- "Journal of the National Cancer Institute"; Fat May Fuel Breast Cancer Growth; Karyn Hede; February 2008
- "Today's Dietitian"; Nutrition Therapy During Breast Cancer Treatment; Lindsey Getz; October 2010
- "Nutrition and Diagnosis-Related Care"; Sylvia Escott-Stump, RD; 2002
