Breast cancer is one of the deadliest and most prevalent forms of cancer that women face today. According to recent statistics, one in eight women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer at some point in their lives.

While there is no surefire way to prevent breast cancer, taking steps to lower your risk is critical.

One of the most promising ways to lower your risk of breast cancer is by eating a healthy and balanced diet. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables can help to bolster your immune system and decrease inflammation.

Recent studies show that certain fruits and vegetables contain compounds that can lower your risk of breast cancer by 40-60%. Here are the top 10 fruits and vegetables that you should be eating:.

1. Broccoli

Broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables you can eat. It is high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Additionally, it contains sulforaphane, a compound that has been shown to have anti-cancer properties.

Sulforaphane works by blocking the growth of cancer cells and inducing apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in cancer cells.

2. Berries

Berries are another great food for preventing breast cancer. They are rich in antioxidants, such as anthocyanins, which can help to slow the growth of cancer cells.

Additionally, berries contain ellagic acid, a compound that has been shown to inhibit cell growth and induce cell death in cancer cells.

3. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells. Researchers believe that lycopene may work by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in breast tissue.

4. Leafy greens

Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and arugula are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are also rich in chlorophyll, a compound that has been shown to have anti-cancer properties.

Researchers believe that chlorophyll may work by blocking the absorption of carcinogens in the digestive system.

5. Citrus fruits

Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, are loaded with vitamin C and other antioxidants. Vitamin C has been shown to help prevent DNA damage and reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development of breast cancer.

6. Flaxseed

Flaxseed is a great source of lignans, which are compounds that have been shown to help prevent breast cancer.

Lignans work by binding to estrogen receptors in the body and reducing the production of estrogen, which can stimulate the growth of breast cancer cells.

7. Pomegranates

Pomegranates are another great fruit for preventing breast cancer. They are rich in antioxidants, such as ellagitannins, which can help to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

Additionally, pomegranate juice has been shown to reduce the size of breast tumors in animal studies.

8. Cruciferous vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables, such as cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts, are rich in antioxidants and sulfur-containing compounds, which can help to prevent breast cancer.

Additionally, they contain indole-3-carbinol, a compound that has been shown to inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells.

9. Avocado

Avocado is a great source of healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, it contains phytochemicals, such as beta-sitosterol and glutathione, which have been shown to have anti-cancer properties.

Glutathione works by neutralizing free radicals and other toxins in the body.

10. Garlic

Garlic is packed with antioxidants and sulfur-containing compounds, which can help to prevent breast cancer. Additionally, it contains allicin, a compound that has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is just one step you can take to lower your risk of breast cancer. Additionally, it is important to maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

By taking these steps, you can help to keep your body healthy and reduce your risk of breast cancer.