5 Foods That Increase Your Risk of Breast Cancer (and 5 That Reduce It)

Breast cancer originates when cells begin to grow out of control, forming a tumor that, at times, can be felt as a lump. It is, unfortunately, one of the most common types of cancer among women.

Although there are no foolproof remedies or miracle cures, it is possible to contribute to the prevention of breast cancer through proper nutrition. Certain foods may have a protective effect against breast cancer.

Below we list the 5 foods to avoid and then those that, on the contrary, should be eaten more often.

5 Foods That Increase Your Risk of Breast Cancer

Dairy products. It often happens that the animals that produce the milk from which this type of food is obtained are treated with chemicals and hormones, associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Although most of these substances are prohibited in Italy, dairy products are often produced with milk that comes from other countries.

Fats. Those that come from processed foods are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. This type of fat, often found in fried foods or packaged sweets, should be avoided.

Red meat. Various studies have associated the risk of breast cancer with excessive consumption of red meat, especially when “well cooked”. Sausages and processed meat, rich in salt, fat and preservatives, are also highly harmful.

Desserts. A diet rich in carbohydrates and refined sugars also causes, among other things, diabetes, forcing the body to produce insulin. Insulin, in turn, stimulates the growth of cancer cells and the production of estrogen.

Vegetable oils. Sunflower, soybean, corn, or peanut seed oils are all high in polyunsaturated fats that increase oxidation in the body, which is associated with a higher risk of breast cancer.

5 Foods That Help Prevent Breast Cancer

Cruciferous vegetables. They contain phytonutrients that prevent the spread of cancer cells and block their formation. In addition, phytonutrients act directly on estrogen metabolism, limiting its production.

Fatty fish. Fish oil can be a great help in cancer prevention, thanks to omega 3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is one of the causes of breast cancer.

Olive oil. Rich in phytonutrients, monounsaturated fats, and antioxidants like squalene, olive oil helps prevent fat oxidation in the body and reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Sweet potatoes. All orange vegetables are rich in carotenoids, which contain compounds capable of regulating cell growth, repair and defense.

Tomatoes. They are very rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that, in addition to giving the classic red color, prevents breast cancer by blocking the excessive growth of cells.