Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer affecting women and the second most common type of cancer overall.

According to the American Cancer Society, in 2021, an estimated 281,550 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the United States. Additionally, there are roughly 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S. Managing the risk of breast cancer recurrence is a major priority for these survivors, and diet and lifestyle changes can play a significant role.

Why Diet Matters

Research has shown that diet and lifestyle play a significant role in preventing chronic diseases, including cancer.

A healthy diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats, is essential for overall health and well-being. These foods provide essential nutrients that help the body function optimally, support a strong immune system, and provide protection against chronic diseases.

The link between diet and cancer is complex, and research into the relationship between specific nutrients, supplements, and cancer is ongoing.

However, it is clear that maintaining a healthy body weight, consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and limiting alcohol consumption can help reduce the risk of several types of cancer, including breast cancer.

Healthy Eating Habits and Breast Cancer Recurrence

Eating a healthy diet is particularly important for breast cancer survivors. A growing body of research suggests that dietary changes can reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence and improve the likelihood of long-term survival.

One study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology followed 1,901 breast cancer survivors for an average of 7.3 years.

The researchers found that those who followed a diet that was high in vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and lean protein had a 42% reduced risk of breast cancer recurrence compared to those who followed a diet that was high in refined grains, fast food, and red meat.

Another study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that breast cancer survivors who consumed a diet that was high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains had a lower risk of death from any cause and a lower risk of breast cancer-related death compared to survivors who consumed a diet that was high in refined grains, sugary foods, and high-fat dairy products.

Eating a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein also supports overall health and helps maintain a healthy body weight.

Being overweight or obese is a risk factor for breast cancer recurrence and reduces the effectiveness of certain cancer treatments.

How to Adopt Healthy Eating Habits

Adopting healthy eating habits can be challenging, particularly if you are used to a diet that is high in processed foods and sugar.

However, making small changes to your diet over time can have a significant impact on your overall health and well-being.

Here are some tips for adopting healthy eating habits:.

Start small. Making a wholesale change to your diet overnight is difficult and unsustainable. Instead, start by making small changes such as swapping sugary drinks for water, or adding an extra serving of vegetables to your meals.
Focus on whole foods. Plan your meals around whole, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit processed foods, refined grains, and sugary snacks.
Choose healthy fats. Include sources of healthy fat in your diet, such as nuts, seeds, avocados, and fatty fish. Avoid trans fats and limit saturated fat.
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support overall health and keep your body functioning optimally.
Get support. Enlist the support of friends and family to help you adopt healthy eating habits. Joining a support group or working with a nutritionist or dietitian can also be helpful.

Conclusion

Adopting healthy eating habits is an important step in reducing the risk of breast cancer recurrence and improving long-term survival for breast cancer survivors.

A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein provides essential nutrients that support overall health and helps maintain a healthy body weight. Making small changes to your diet over time can have a significant impact on your overall health and well-being.