‘Early detection will help prolong a life’-PinkDrive
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Cancer is a grim subject but a vital one that needs to be discussed. We cannot stress enough the importance of getting regular check-ups and education regarding the risk factors, symptoms and precautions to be taken.
Please keep in mind that while BodiCafé is able to provide general lifestyle advice which may reduce your risk of getting breast cancer, we strongly advise that you first seek medical advice from a trusted practitioner before attempting any alternative remedies.
Diet
It is important to note that, while there is no proven cancer-healing or preventing food, diet does indeed play a major role in increasing the risk of breast cancer. Your diet can either assist your body to fight off any cancerous agents or it can serve as a risk factor.
Foods that are processed, high in fat and high in sugar (fried foods, red meat, certain dairy products) can lead to an increased production of estrogen in the body. Estrogen increases breast size and thus leads to a higher breast cancer risk.
Foods that have antioxidant properties: fruits, nuts, certain legumes etc. , may help prevent cell damage in the body caused by free radicals. Fresh, pesticide-free and preferably home-grown produce will provide your body with the right nutrients it needs to protect your cells from damage.
Lifestyle Choices
A sedentary, high-stress and alcohol abusing lifestyle can all be classified as risk factors for breast cancer. It is advisable to engage in a regular exercise programme that will keep your immune system in check and your weight within a healthy range so as not to increase the amount of estrogen-producing fat tissue in the body. Alcohol(another estrogen-increasing and cell damaging agent) should be entirely eliminated. Fresh water, regular exercise and enough rest must all be a part of your lifestyle activities.
Self Examination
No woman has to live in a state of constant paranoia; however, ignorance can lead to what could have been an early detection of breast cancer. Hence the importance of routine self examinations and checkups. Be sure to research the prominent breast areas to be examined, the types of lumps to look out for and jot down any differences or concerns that should then be communicated to your physician.
It is important to remember that early detection has a greater treatment success rate. We urge all women to be healthy, to be informed and to never shy away from getting your regular checkups.
Be Healthy and Happy this Breast Cancer Awareness Month!
Sources:
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Brown, M. 2018. Cancer and Diet 101: How What You Eat Can Influence Cancer. [Online]. [1 October 2019]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cancer-and-die
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Breastcancerorg. 2019. Drinking Alcohol. [Online]. [1 October 2019]. Available from: https://www.breastcancer.org/risk/factors/alcohol
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Komen, S. 2018. EXERCISE (PHYSICAL ACTIVITY). [Online]. [1 October 2019]. Available from: https://ww5.komen.org/Breastcancer/Lackofexercise.html
