Breast cancer, amongst women worldwide, is the most common cancer. Countries with low incidences of breast cancer suggest there are dietary, environmental and lifestyle factors that may play a large role in it’s presence. How can you protect yourself from breast cancer; eat well for prevention and to aid in your healing.
The following is a list of “super foods” that support positive breast health. Incorporate these into your diets, in their natural organic state, and remember to stay active, keep stress at bay, and incorporate breast massage into your regular routine. You can monitor your breast health through regular thermography appointments, visits to your doctor for advice and physical check-ups.
The Brassica Family of Vegetables
This family of veggies includes broccoli, cabbage, kale, cauliflower and brussel sprouts. Brassicas are particularly high in phytochemicals which act as antioxidants to reduce the amount of cell-damage from free radicals. Components in brassicas like indoles, isothiocyanates and dithiolthiones can block hormone actions and metabolic pathways that are associated with the development of cancer.
Garlic
Garlic is a wonderful immune-boosting food and studies have shown a possible link between increased garlic consumption and lowered risk of cancer like cancer of the breast. The reason behind garlic’s health benefit might lie in the fact it contains the building blocks for hydrogen sulfide. That is, red blood cells may be able to process compounds from garlic and turn them into hydrogen sulfide, which relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow.
Fish and Fish Oil
Researchers are taking a look at the role of fatty fish and fish oil supplements in breast cancer prevention. One project took a look at 21 studies and found a 14% decrease in breast cancer in postmenopausal women who had a high intake of fatty acids from fish oil. Fatty fish like salmon, sardines and tuna, are rich in Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which the body cannot produce on its own. The fatty acids found in these fish are two kinds: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA). Many nutrition experts recommend you eat Omega-3 rich fish 1-3 times a week and/or supplement with a good quality fish oil rich in DHA and EPA.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are rich in Vitamin E, an important vitamin that inhibits cancer cell growth and protects healthy cells from the effects of free radicals. Pumpkin seeds also contain phytoestrogens. Research is looking in the role of phytoestrogens in the growth of hormone-dependent tumours.
Turmeric
This vibrant spice popular in many East Indian dishes may be a powerful fighter in the war against breast cancer. Research has shown that Curcurmen, found in Turmeric, has properties that may reduce the expression of deadly molecules within cancer cells and that it may reduce the spread of cancer.
Eat a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, good fats and quality proteins and grains, with spice! And incorporate these foods into your diet for prevention and healing.
