Can a Healthy Diet Help Prevent Breast Cancer?

While lifestyle plays a role in developing cancer, the connection between diet and breast cancer has long intrigued scientists and persons interested in dietary factors and cancer risk. To date, unlike the connection between diet and some other cancers, no conclusive research exists — either as a single study or in combined studies — indicating a cause and effect relationship between diet and breast cancer. But this doesn’t mean paying attention to diet and food choices isn't important. There is solid evidence that eating certain foods may play a role in reducing the risk of breast cancer.

To help lower the risk of breast cancer, the American Cancer Society and other consumer health groups recommend a diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables (think at least five a day), 20-35 grams of dietary fiber, cold water fish containing omega-3 fatty acids, poultry, folic acid found in fortified grain products and foods rich in vitamins A and C. Make it a low-fat diet, too, choosing fat from plant sources over animal fat, which should be limited.

Fruits and vegetables are important on their own. They contain many nutrients that appear to protect the body against tissue damage that occurs as part of normal metabolism. Because this damage is associated with increased cancer risk, the nutrients called antioxidants and carotenoids in particular, are thought to protect against cancer.

Along with eating well and choosing a variety of foods in moderation, women are advised to reduce their risk of breast cancer by maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise, and limiting alcohol intake.