The expert explains how a healthy routine, with foods that prevent breast cancer, helps fight the disease
We’re inside Pink October and the prevention and awareness campaign on breast cancer, the most common type among women, has already begun. There are several measures you can take to prevent illnesses and discover them more quickly if they arise, such as self-examination and visits to the doctor.
But did you know that diet also plays a very important role in preventing breast cancer? According to Ana Salomon, professor of Nutrition at the Centro Universitário de Brasília (CEUB), adopting balanced eating habits can make a difference in this sense.
So, figure out which one foods that prevent cancer and those that should not be consumed:
The “bad guys” of food
Ana explains that among the foods considered inappropriate are fast foods, ultra-processed foods, which contain high amounts of saturated fats and sugars, as well as trans fats, which should not be consumed in any quantity.
«Salted fish, preserved meats and sausages should also be avoided because they increase the risk of cancer. In addition, obviously, to foods rich in sugar and fat. The same should be considered for sugary drinks and alcoholic drinks, which should also be avoided”, he adds. It is worth remembering that this does not mean that you can never consume these foods, but it is advisable to do so in moderation.
Furthermore, there are those foods that can be consumed a little more, but always in moderation. This is the case of red meat, which must not exceed 500 g per week.
Foods that prevent breast cancer
According to the expert, the foods that prevent breast cancer are those rich in fibre, such as fruit, vegetables and whole grains. In addition to fiber, they are composed of antioxidant vitamins and minerals that protect the body from the harmful effects of environmental factors to which we are exposed, such as pollution and smoke from fires.
“Among vegetables, I emphasize the consumption of non-starchy vegetables: carrots, beets, celery, turnips, as well as leafy greens (such as spinach and lettuce); cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage and watercress); and the allium genus, like onion, garlic and leeks,” he explains.
Potatoes and tubers (yams, yams, cassava), in turn, should be consumed in moderation, as they contain higher levels of energy and carbohydrates, which can contribute to an increase in body fat which, if located in the abdomen, favors a increased cardiovascular risk and some types of cancer.
Regarding fruit, it is worth highlighting the importance of consuming fruit of different colors (e.g. red, green, yellow, white, purple and orange). This serves to ensure an adequate supply of vitamins and minerals. Therefore, the main basis of your diet should be made up of whole grains, non-starchy vegetables, fruits and legumes.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
