Dealing with breast cancer can be a life-changing experience, but there are steps you can take to promote healing and prevention.

Along with medical treatments and therapies, incorporating certain foods into your diet can help support your body’s natural defenses and boost overall wellness. This survivor’s guide will highlight key foods that have been shown to play a role in healing and preventing breast cancer.

1. Cruciferous vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and Brussels sprouts belong to the Brassica family. They are packed with beneficial compounds such as sulforaphane, which has been found to have anti-cancer properties.

Including these vegetables in your meals can help inhibit the growth of cancer cells and reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence.

2. Berries

Loaded with antioxidants and phytochemicals, berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries offer numerous health benefits, including cancer-fighting properties.

The antioxidants present in berries help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Add a handful of berries to your breakfast or enjoy them as a snack to harness their healing potential.

3. Fish

Incorporating fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines into your diet can provide essential omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids have been linked to reducing inflammation, lowering the risk of cancer, and improving overall heart health.

Aim for at least two servings of fish per week to reap these benefits.

4. Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine and known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been shown to hinder the growth and spread of cancer cells.

Consider adding turmeric to your dishes or incorporating it into a healing turmeric tea.

5. Green tea

Green tea is rich in catechins, which are antioxidants that have been linked to reduced cancer risk. It also contains polyphenols that help fight inflammation and promote overall health.

Replace your regular tea or coffee with green tea to enjoy its healing benefits.

6. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a fantastic source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known for its cancer-fighting properties. Studies have shown that lycopene may help reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Incorporate tomatoes into your diet by adding them to salads, sauces, or enjoying them as a snack.

7. Nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds offer a combination of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. They are also rich in phytochemicals, such as lignans, that help reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are excellent options to include in your daily diet.

8. Garlic

Garlic not only adds flavor to your meals but also possesses anti-cancer properties. It contains organosulfur compounds that can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Including fresh garlic in your cooking or taking garlic supplements can provide these benefits.

9. Citrus fruits

Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are packed with vitamin C and other antioxidants. Vitamin C plays a role in preventing the formation of cancer-causing compounds and strengthening the immune system.

Enjoy citrus fruits as a refreshing snack or incorporate them into salads and smoothies.

10. Soy-based foods

Soy-based foods, such as tofu, tempeh, and soy milk, contain compounds called isoflavones, which have estrogen-like effects in the body. These compounds may help reduce the risk of breast cancer and lower the likelihood of cancer recurrence.

Incorporate moderate amounts of soy-based foods into your diet if tolerated well.