Medicana International Ankara Hospital Nutrition and Diet Specialist Sena Nur Doğan listed 10 recommendations for nutrition against breast cancer, one of the most common types of cancer among women worldwide.
Breast cancer draws attention as one of the most common types of cancer among women worldwide. Noting that proper nutrition is one of the most important factors that will support the quality of life and general health status of patients as well as the treatment process, Medicana International Ankara Hospital Nutrition and Diet Specialist Dyt. Sena Nur Doğan made 10 recommendations on nutrition to prevent breast cancer and to make the treatment process more effective. Doğan emphasized the importance of a balanced and varied diet and said, “Including various food groups in your diet allows you to get the vitamins and minerals your body needs. It is important to include vegetables and fruits, whole grains, healthy fats and protein sources (legumes, lean meats).”
Stating that antioxidant-rich foods should be recognized and added to every meal, Dietitian Doğan said, “Antioxidants are agents that prevent cell damage by fighting free radicals. Dark green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, red fruits such as aronia, blueberries, blackberries, walnuts, almonds and oil seeds are rich in antioxidants. Take care to include these foods in your daily diet.”
Doğan stated that fiber foods should be increased and said, “Fibrous foods support digestive health and body weight balance, helping to reduce the risk of cancer. Whole grains, legumes, vegetables and fruits are the best ways to increase your fiber intake.”
Noting that omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and support heart health, Doğan said fish, chia seeds and walnuts are foods rich in omega-3. Underlining that attention should be paid to fat sources and amounts, Doğan continued his words as follows:
“High fat consumption supports obesity. There is a strong link between obesity and breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Against breast cancer, you should use vegetable oils (olive oil, walnut oil, avocado oil, etc.) and pay attention to the amount. You should limit the consumption of sources with high saturated fat content such as butter, cream, tail fat.”
Doğan recommended avoiding sugar and processed foods, “Excessive sugar consumption and processed foods can contribute to the development of diseases such as breast cancer by increasing the risk of obesity. Therefore, you should avoid sugary and processed foods as much as possible. You should definitely read the contents of the packaged products you buy; you should prefer products sweetened with fruit instead of products containing glucose syrup, fructose syrup and sugar.”
Stating that red meat and processed meat consumption should be limited, Doğan said, “Frequent consumption of red meat and processed meat can increase your risk of developing breast cancer by increasing free radical production in your body. Processed meats include ham, sausage, bacon and pepperoni. Instead of red meat and processed meats, you can turn to legumes, which are vegetable protein sources, and white meat sources such as fish and turkey.”
Dietitian Doğan noted that limiting alcohol consumption can be beneficial against the risk of breast cancer. Stating that vitamin D levels should be checked, Doğan said, “There is a significant relationship between low circulating vitamin D levels and breast cancer risk. Do not forget to have your regular blood tests and consult your health care provider.”
Doğan stated that body weight control is very important and concluded her words as follows:
“Obesity means more fat tissue in the body. Fat tissue can increase the production of hormones such as estrogen. High estrogen levels, especially in post-menopausal women, increase the risk of breast cancer. Excess body weight can cause inflammatory processes in the body. These conditions can create a microenvironment that promotes cancer development. You should seek support from your nutritionist to limit the consumption of simple carbohydrates (white bread and pastries), refined sugar-containing products, high-fat foods, creamy and saucy foods that can cause body weight gain and to maintain a healthy body weight balance.”
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