We all know the pink ribbon holds a powerful message for those impacted by breast cancer, but the rest of us may need reminding of its significance.
In 1985, the American Cancer Society dedicated the month of October to breast cancer awareness to encourage women across the country to get mammograms, the most effective tool against breast cancer to date. Nowadays, it still serves as a reminder for women everywhere, but it’s also a time to honor loved ones who have fought the battle against breast cancer and rally around those currently fighting it through support and donations.
Who Should Get Checked?
At age 40, women should start talking with their doctor about their risk of breast cancer and their need for screening. By age 50, all women should get screened every one to two years.
Show Your Support
On average, one woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every 14 seconds, making it the leading cause of cancer in women. In fact, as of 2020, breast cancer is considered the most common cancer worldwide, so the need for more research and new treatments is eminent.
The Link Between Cancer and Nutrition
Whether you or a loved one is currently fighting cancer, you’ve had cancer or you simply want to make every effort to lower your risk of getting cancer, nutrition is one of the biggest natural weapons we have. According to OSFHealthcare.org and SarahCannon.com, the following tips play a major role in cancer recovery and prevention.
1. Follow a plant-based diet if you can. It’s been found that fruits, leafy greens, legumes, nuts and seeds actively fight cancer. Phytochemicals, found in plants, are anti-inflammatory and therefore disrupt cancer formation. Fiber, found in all of these foods, is linked to lower rates of breast cancer specifically.
2. Watch your protein intake, especially if you follow a plant-based diet. Protein is key to strengthening your body to withstand chemotherapy treatments and fight cancer. While there are plenty of plant-based proteins, it takes more intentionality to work them in. Lentils, nuts, seeds and Greek yogurt are all great options.
If you aren’t eating plant-based, you’ll have a much wider variety of protein to choose from, but poultry, fish, and eggs (in addition to plant-based proteins) are some of the cleanest, making them ideal for fighting cancer.
3. Listen to your body when it comes to sugar. We’ve all heard it said that sugar feeds cancer cells, and while it’s true to an extent, our bodies still rely on natural sugars to power healthy cells. So while sugar intake should be limited, natural sugars, like those found in fruits and whole grains, will always be part of a healthy diet.
Not to mention, chemotherapy can cause cancer patients to lose their appetite, and eating enough is necessary to give your body the strength it needs to keep fighting. Sugars are often easier on the stomach, so if it comes down to carbs or nothing, choose carbs!
*Remember, only you and your doctor know your medical situation. Make sure to talk with them before making any drastic changes to your diet.
The good news is breast cancer cases have been steadily decreasing for over two decades, so we know our efforts have been effective. As we continue the fight, there are a host of charities and nonprofits you can support this month.
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National Breast Cancer Foundation
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Susan G. Komen Foundation
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BreastCancer.org
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Young Survival Coalition
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Breast Cancer Research Foundation
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American Cancer Society
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The DONNA Foundation
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Living Beyond Breast Cancer