Breast cancer is a cancer that forms in the cells that line the breasts. It is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in the US after skin cancer. Fortunately there are many breast cancer treatments options. These include surgery which involves cutting out the cancer tissue, chemotherapy are drugs taken in pill form or intravenously, hormonal therapy which involves blocking the growth of cancer cells, biological therapy and radiation therapy which uses high energy rays to kill cancer cells.
The human body relies on external sources of nutrients to provide compounds that help it function at its best. This is especially important in cases of illness, especially cancer which puts a strain on the body. Below is a list of cancer friendly foods:
1. Guidelines for healthy eating
It is important to increase the intake of breast cancer-friendly foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Fat should be decreased by 30 percent of the total caloric intake and alcohol should not be taken at all. Smoked, pickled and cured foods should be minimized to allow the body to use it’s nutrients to heal rather than getting rid of excess toxins. It is also important to maintain a healthy weight at this time.
2. Vegetables that contain antioxidants
Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage, bok choy, watercress, collards mustard greens and brussel sprout. These vegetables are rich in antioxidants that help protect healthy cells from cell damage. These are best eaten 5 times a day to get their full benefits.
3. Fruits with antioxidants
Antioxidants protect cells from damage. Blueberries contain the highest level of antioxidants among all fruits and vegetables. They also help neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce inflammation. Strawberries are a great source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Goji berries are a superfood that are rich in minerals, vitamins and antioxidants and they are extremely effective at raising antioxidant levels in the blood. Raspberries are soft, tart berries that are a great source of vitamin C, fiber, manganese and antioxidants.
4. Whole grains for fiber
Foods high in fiber are an important breast cancer food, because they positively affect the actions of hormones in breast cancer and other hormone dependent cancers. It is important to include complex carbohydrates such as wheat, rye, oats, corn, bulgur and barley.
5. Soy for protein
Research shows that human beings digest soy differently from animals. Soy is an excellent source of protein, fiber, B Vitamins, iron, calcium and isoflavones. Three servings of soy per day reduces the recurrence of breast cancer. Other sources of protein. It is important to increase lean cuts of poultry, lamb, fish that have the fat trimmed off as well as the skin removed. Legumes such beans and lentils are a great source of healthy proteins that also provide the body with fiber.
6. Avoid salty food, fats and alcohol
It’s best to avoid foods that are cured, pickled or smoked, because these often contain high levels of salt. Such foods are also high in fat and other preservatives that could adversely affect the body’s ability to heal properly. It’s also important to avoid alcohol consumption which has been linked to an increased risk in breast cancer, because it has been observed to increase estrogen and damage DNA.
