Just because October was breast cancer awareness month does not mean you should stop learning ways to help mitigate your risk of breast cancer!
Tragically, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. In the U.S., breast cancer death rates are higher than any other cancer aside from lung. These are terrifying statistics! It is important for both men and women to be proactive to protect themselves from breast cancer!
Here are some ways to promote breast health through food…
1. Eat greens and cruciferous vegetables
Eating greens such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale and more can help promote breast health. These cruciferous vegetables are full of powerful carotenoid antioxidants which may help reduce your risk of breast cancer.
2. Eat berries and citrus
Berries are filled with antioxidants and are lower in sugar than most fruits. Antioxidants help to reduce free radicals which is crucial for reducing one’s risk of cancer. Citrus fruits are also high in antioxidants, carotenoids and vitamin C which provide anti inflammatory effects!
3. Try some alliums
Okay, being completely honest, I had never heard that word until I began researching this topic! So don’t feel bad if you were confused as well. Alliums are a type of vegetables which include onions and garlic. They have been shown to contain organosulfur compounds which are protective against breast cancer! Sauté some garlic and onion and incorporate them into almost any meal.
4. Fermented foods
Fermented foods such as kimchi, yogurt, miso and others contain probiotic nutrients which are related to immune enhancing effects. These effects may help lower your risk of cancers, including breast cancer.
5. Herbs and spices
Herbs and spices such as parsley, rosemary, oregano, thyme, turmeric, curry, and ginger (to name a few) may help lower your risk of breast cancer. These herbs and spices contain: fatty acids, vitamins and polyphenol antioxidants. In some studies, these effects have been shown to demonstrate anti-cancer properties!
To educate yourself further about breast cancer, please visit www.breastcancer.org
Want to take even further action? Here are some options of where to donate.