5 foods for healthy breasts
There are many reasons that we choose the foods that we eat—personal taste, nutrition, convenience, and more. But, many holistic practices also believe that food can also act as medicine. Certain dishes have been scientifically proven to lower the risk of, prevent, and even speed recovery of some diseases.
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, consider adding these five breast-healthy foods to your diet. Eat up!
Cruciferous Vegetables
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, cruciferous vegetables are extremely rich in phytochemicals called indoles and sulforaphane that can prevent breast cancer. Not sure which veggies fall into this category? Cruciferous vegetables include broccoli (broccoli sprouts have proven to be especially powerful), cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts, and more. Not only do these veggies prevent breast cancer, but they also can stop the spread of it, according to NBC News.
Salmon
You have probably heard about the many benefits of eating “good fats,” and fish is one of them! Omega-3 fatty acids, found in cold water fish such as salmon and herring, have been linked to a reduced risk of breast cancer. Some studies have also found that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation, a possible contributing factor for breast cancer.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in flavonoids and carotenoids, which are linked to a host of medical benefits. According to NBC News, tomatoes pack a powerful punch of lycopene, an antioxidant that not only gives tomatoes their redness but also protects against breast cancer by stopping dangerous cell growth.
Soy
According to the American Cancer Society, soy contains compounds called isoflavones, which can act like estrogen in the body to protect against hormone-dependent cancers. In addition, the National Center for Biotechnology Information found in one study of 9,514 breast cancer survivors that soy consumption helped prevent recurrence of tumors. If you are unsure how to incorporate soy into your daily diet, it can be found in tofu, edamame, miso, soy sauce, and more.
Sweet Potatoes
Whether you like this well-known superfood baked, mashed, fried, or steamed, the benefits are still there. Eating a diet rich in brightly colored produce might help protect you from breast cancer. A 2009 study published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, found that women who ate plenty of carotenoid-rich fruits and vegetables had a lower risk of developing certain types of breast cancer.
This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to treat or diagnose any condition. If you have a medical concern, please speak with your doctor.
Sinclair Broadcast Group is committed to the health and well-being of our viewers, which is why we initiated Sinclair Cares. Every month we’ll bring you information about the “Cause of the Month,” including topical information, education, awareness, and prevention. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
