Being a breast cancer survivor isn’t easy. After undergoing chemotherapy, surgery or radiation, the process of healing and recovery can be hard on a person.

Moreover, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is just as essential to keep the cancer remission at bay. One important aspect of staying healthy is paying attention to one’s diet and avoiding certain foods that could increase the risk of cancer re-occurrence.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the deadly risks of eating certain foods for breast cancer survivors and what they can do to protect themselves.

Foods to Avoid

There are certain foods that are best to avoid after breast cancer treatment as they can trigger inflammation and promote cancer cell growth. Here are a few of them:.

Sugar and Refined Carbohydrates

It’s no secret that sugar and refined carbohydrates are not beneficial to one’s health.

Foods that contain a high amount of sugar or refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, white rice, and pasta, can cause a spike in blood sugar levels leading to inflammation and an increased risk of cancer. If you have a sweet tooth, then swap processed sweets for something healthier like fruits or natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Processed and Red Meat

Processed meat like bacon, ham, and sausages are high in sodium and preservatives, making them a poor choice for those who have overcome breast cancer.

Red meat like beef, lamb, and pork are acceptable in moderation but it’s important to look for lean cuts and avoid cooking them at high temperatures as they can produce carcinogens. Instead, try to fill your plate with more plant-based protein like tofu, chickpeas, nuts, and legumes.

Alcohol

It’s common to celebrate milestones with a bottle of wine or champagne but breast cancer survivors should avoid alcohol as much as possible. Drinking alcohol falls the risk of remission and increases the chances of cancer re-occurrence.

If you must drink, keep it to a minimum and try to limit your intake to no more than one serving per day.

Fried and grilled foods

Processed and fried foods can increase inflammation and increase the risk of cancer recurrence. Fried foods are high in unhealthy fats and are typically breaded or coated in flour which is high in carbohydrates.

Grilling or frying foods are also known to produce polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) which are carcinogens. If you enjoy the taste of grilled meats or fried foods, try cooking them in healthier ways like using an air fryer or baking in an oven instead of frying or grilling.

High-Calorie Foods

After breast cancer treatment, most people gain weight due to the lack of physical activity and changes in metabolism. Gaining weight can also increase the risk of cancer recurrence, so it’s important to maintain a healthy weight.

High-calorie foods like fast food, fried foods, and snacks like chips and cookies should be limited or avoided altogether. Instead, try eating more whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Eat a Healthy Diet

If you have overcome or are currently undergoing breast cancer treatment, you can reduce your risk of recurrence by eating a healthy diet that’s rich in plant-based foods.

According to the American Cancer Society, a balanced diet that’s full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins can help reduce the risk of cancer.

Fruits and Vegetables

Integrating more fruits and vegetables into your diet is an essential step in maintaining good health. They are rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation and protect against cancer cells.

Try to eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are a great source of fiber and can help regulate blood sugar levels. Quinoa, brown rice, barley, whole wheat bread, and oats are some of the best whole grains you can add to your diet.

They’ll keep you full longer and provide essential vitamins and minerals to keep your immune system functioning correctly.

Healthy Fats

Eating healthy fats that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids like fish (salmon, sardines, and mackerel), nuts (almonds and walnuts), and seeds (flaxseeds and chia seeds) are good for you.

They can lower inflammation levels, protect against cancer, and improve overall heart health.

Lean Proteins

Adding lean proteins like chicken and turkey to your diet can help you maintain energy levels throughout the day. Legumes like lentils and beans are also a good source of protein and can be used in salads, soups, or stews.

Avoid processed meat and high-fat meats like bacon and steak as these can increase the risk of cancer recurrence.

Conclusion

When it comes to recovering from breast cancer, taking care of your health is essential.

Eating foods that are loaded with sugar, unhealthy fats, and preservatives can increase inflammation levels in the body, leading to a higher risk of cancer recurrence. Incorporating a healthy diet and exercise can greatly reduce this risk, as well as keeping a close eye on the foods you consume. One of the best ways to maintain good health is by eating a diet rich in plant-based foods, lean protein, and healthy fats.

Stick to these guidelines, and you’ll stay on track towards a healthier lifestyle.