Reduce Breast Cancer Risks Through Nutrition

Posted by Superberries Team on 10/7/2022 to Health Tips

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and the second leading cause of cancer death in women. Breast cancer rates have been declining since 1989 due to the rise of new technology, early detection, greater awareness, and better nutrition. There are many things you can do to reduce your risk of breast cancer. Some lifestyle choices such as maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, and proper nutrition can make a big difference. Here are a few other facts you should know.

Know Your Family History

If breast cancer runs in the family there is an increased genetic predisposition to the disease. Knowing the family history and being aware of an increased risk factor can aid in early detection and treatment. 

Perform Self Exams

Monthly self-examination is important by becoming aware of the shape, feel, and form of the breasts. Self-exams are generally the best way to detect breast cancer early and early detection increases the survival rate upon diagnosis. Exercise may serve to protect against breast cancer by helping to maintain a healthy weight and improving “good” estrogen levels. There are indications in studies performed by the American Cancer Society that obesity may be a factor in a higher risk of breast cancer, particularly if obesity occurs later in life. 

Density of Breast Tissue

Ask your physician to check the density of the breast. More tissue than fat makes it difficult to detect early forms of breast cancer. The density of the breast may increase the risk factor of breast cancer by up to six times. 

Breast Feed If Possible 

Breastfeeding may reduce the risk factors in breast cancer occurrence. Some studies point to the idea that the longer a woman breasts feeds in a child’s infancy, the more protection she has against breast cancer. 

Limit Hormone Therapy

Hormonal therapy and dosage for menopausal symptoms beyond three years may increase the risks of breast cancer. The Mayo Clinic recommends women undergoing hormonal treatment check with their physicians about possible non-hormonal therapy or medicinal options to treat symptoms related to menopause.

Avoid Excessive Radiation

Avoid exposure to excessive ionizing radiation. Studies have proven radiation can mutate the DNA in cells causing the cells to go cancerous. Generally, most doctors will only schedule medical imaging if absolutely necessary. If a question arises about the need for medical imaging, ask your physician if the image is necessary or seek a second opinion.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Limit alcohol consumption to one drink per day and don’t smoke. Excessive alcohol use and the carcinogens in nicotine have been shown to increase the risk factors in breast and other cancers.

Eat Green Veggies and Fruits

Finally, women eating a healthy diet of vegetables rich in carotenoids, flavonoids and phytonutrients such as leafy greens, broccoli, tomatoes and Aronia Berries have had a lower risk in developing the more aggressive forms of breast cancer. Limit red and processed meat intake, eat foods higher in fiber and whole grains and stay away from processed sugars.

Get A Mammogram

Recommendations to begin screenings for breast cancer range in age from the early 40’s to age 50, or earlier depending on certain family and other risk factors involved. Because everyone is different, the best course is to check with your family physician to determine when it’s best to start the screening process for breast cancer.

In the meantime, think pink and educate yourself on the nuances of better health and wellness.




Also review Research on Aronia Berries and Breast Cancer from Pubmed.gov.  Search on Aronia or Chokeberry and Breast Cancer. 

1.

Catechol derived from aronia juice through lactic acid bacteria fermentation inhibits breast cancer stem cell formation via modulation Stat3/IL-6 signaling pathway.

Choi HS, Kim JH, Kim SL, Deng HY, Lee D, Kim CS, Yun BS, Lee DS.

Mol Carcinog. 2018 Nov;57(11):1467-1479. doi: 10.1002/mc.22870. Epub 2018 Jul 18.

PMID:
 
29964299
2.

Chemotherapy modulates the biological activity of breast cancer patients plasma: the protective properties of black chokeberry extract.

Kedzierska M, Malinowska J, Kontek B, Kolodziejczyk-Czepas J, Czernek U, Potemski P, Piekarski J, Jeziorski A, Olas B.

Food Chem Toxicol. 2013 Mar;53:126-32. doi: 10.1016/j.fct.2012.11.042. Epub 2012 Dec 5.

PMID:
 
23220617
3.

Effects of the commercial extract of aronia on oxidative stress in blood platelets isolated from breast cancer patients after the surgery and various phases of the chemotherapy.

Kedzierska M, Olas B, Wachowicz B, Glowacki R, Bald E, Czernek U, Szydlowska-Pazera K, Potemski P, Piekarski J, Jeziorski A.

Fitoterapia. 2012 Mar;83(2):310-7. doi: 10.1016/j.fitote.2011.11.007. Epub 2011 Nov 12.

PMID:
 
22101070