[LifeStyle] HABITS AND FOODS THAT HELP PREVENT BREAST CANCER

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October is a month that has a special meaning for all women. Beyond the pink symbols appearing, the importance is to become aware of the physical examination as well as all the self-care that must be taken into account to avoid breast cancer.

While there are many factors involved such as genetics, there are also factors responsible for this global increase, which includes changes in lifestyles. "Of these, the most important is probably diet and, as an associated factor, the increase in body weight, especially in postmenopausal women", described Danissa Rojas, an academic at the School of Nutrition and Dietetics of the U. Andrés Bello.

“Numerous studies have shown the benefits of a healthy lifestyle based on physical exercise, a balanced diet and avoiding the consumption of alcohol and tobacco. It has been shown that 40% to 50% of cancers can be prevented if we modify our lifestyles, including diet ”, explained the nutritionist.

"Food or diet cannot cure cancer, but some of them can help control the side effects of treatment or help the body to recover after treatment," added the UNAB academic.

Danissa Rojas highlights some of the recommendations of the American Cancer Society to prevent breast cancer or to contribute to recovery after treatment:

 

► Maintain body weight in a normal range. avoid weight gain and increased abdominal girth.

► Physical activity: be moderately physically active. Brisk walking for at least 30 minutes each day. Limit the habits of sedentary life, especially the time to watch television.

► A balanced diet: control caloric intake, avoid sugary drinks and foods high in fat. Reduce the consumption of red meat. Avoid consuming foods preserved in salt such as sausages, preserves and all processed products. Legumes, fish, nuts, fruits, vegetables and olive oil are the pillars of the Mediterranean diet that, according to various studies, have been shown to help ward off cancer.

► See if nutritional supplements are really necessary: Women often want to know if there are any dietary or nutritional supplements they can take to help reduce their risk. As of yet, no dietary supplement (including vitamins, minerals, and plant-based products) has clearly been shown to help reduce the risk of breast cancer progressing or coming back. This does not mean that none are useful, although it is important to know that none have proven to be so, therefore, eating a good diet is always the best option.

► Watch your alcohol consumption: Drinking alcoholic beverages, even as little as a few drinks a week, has been shown to increase a woman's risk of breast cancer. However, it is not clear whether alcohol affects the risk of breast cancer coming back. Drinking alcohol can increase estrogen levels in the body, which in theory could increase the risk of developing this condition. However, the evidence that arises from studies on this subject is not so firm, regarding its reappearance, but the best option is always to limit its consumption for special occasions.