Foods That Help Prevent Breast Cancer Risk – One in eight American women may get invasive breast cancer over their lifetime, making it the most common form of cancer in women. Although less than 1% of all breast cancer incidences are in men, it can also affect them.
Breast cancer may be brought on by genetic mutations and DNA damage. Both obesity and inheriting specific genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, can raise your risk.
Lifestyle is also very important. Breast cancer risk factors include smoking, estrogen exposure, binge drinking, and specific dietary patterns, notably Western diets high in processed foods.
Foods that may lower breast cancer risk
Keep in mind that many factors are associated with breast cancer development. While improving your diet can improve your overall health and reduce your cancer risk in general, it’s only one piece of the puzzle.
Leafy green vegetables
These are just a few of the leafy green vegetables that may have anticancer properties:
- kale
- arugula
- spinach
- mustard greens
- chard
Leafy green vegetables contain carotenoid antioxidants, including beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Higher blood levels of these antioxidants are associated with reduced breast cancer risk
Cruciferous vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables, including cauliflower, cabbage, and broccoli, may help lower your risk of breast cancer. Cruciferous vegetables contain glucosinolate compounds, which your body can convert into molecules called isothiocyanates
Allium vegetables
Garlic, onions, and leeks are all allium vegetables. They boast an array of nutrients, including organosulfur compounds, flavonoid antioxidants, and vitamin C. These may have powerful anticancer properties
Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits include:
- oranges
- grapefruits
- lemons
- limes
- tangerines
Citrus fruits and their peels are teeming with compounds that may protect against breast cancer, including:
- folate
- vitamin C
- carotenoids like beta-cryptoxanthin and beta carotene
- flavonoid antioxidants like quercetin, hesperetin, and naringenin
Berries
Antioxidants in berries, including flavonoids and anthocyanins, have been shown to protect against cellular damage as well as the development and spread of cancer cells
Beans
Beans are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Specifically, their high fiber content may protect against breast cancer.
Fatty fish
