Statistics show that one in eight women in the United States is affected by breast cancer, and the number of diagnoses is increasing every year.
Fox News medical contributor Dr. Nicole Safier appeared on “Fox & Friends” Sunday to discuss the increased risk and specific foods that can help reduce it.
“The biggest risk factors for breast cancer are being female, aging, and inheriting genetic mutations,” Safia said.
Signs of breast cancer, symptoms to watch out for, and when to schedule regular checkups
However, she pointed out that there are many external factors that can increase the risk, such as environmental toxins in food and other products.
“The Western diet is full of ultra-processed foods, and lotions and shampoos contain a lot of toxins,” Safia says.
“Everything we put into our bodies and on our skin has an effect on us.”
Change your lifestyle to reduce risk
Safieh says that while it’s impossible for a woman to eliminate her risk of breast cancer, there are things she can do to reduce her chances.
“Making small changes to our daily lives can significantly improve our health and sense of well-being,” she told FOX News Digital.
New report reveals rapid rise in breast cancer diagnoses among women under 50
“Small steps like choosing healthier snacks, walking a little more each day, and getting a little extra sleep add up over time and reduce your risk of cancer and other diseases.”
The key, she says, is to strive for balance and moderation.
“Making small changes to our daily lives can lead to significant improvements in our health and well-being.”
“You don’t need to make drastic changes to feel better; the key is to make thoughtful choices that fit your lifestyle,” Safier says. “These little efforts can make you healthier and more energetic.”
One oft-overlooked lifestyle choice, especially when it comes to reducing the risk of breast cancer, is breastfeeding, doctors said.
Research shows that each time a woman breastfeeds, her risk of breast cancer decreases by 4.3%.
Additionally, each time a woman gives birth, her risk decreases by 7%.
“Other things we can do are maintain a healthy weight, don’t smoke and consume alcohol in moderation,” Safia said.
“Certain foods have also been shown to reduce the risk of medical disease, particularly breast cancer.”
5 foods that can reduce your risk of breast cancer
Safieh recommends incorporating the following foods into your diet to prevent breast cancer.
1. Spinach
Spinach, a large leafy vegetable, contains carotenoids, micronutrients linked to reduced breast cancer risk.
“A large-scale study that looked at more than 32,000 women over 20 years showed that breast cancer was reduced by up to 28% in women whose diets were high in spinach and large leafy greens.” Safir said on “Fox & Friends.” ”
2. Garlic
Safieh said small studies have shown that people who regularly consume garlic have a reduced risk of breast cancer.
Peer-reviewed research shows that active compounds in garlic can inhibit cancer growth and kill cancer cells, but more research is needed to confirm this. .
3. Blueberry
Safieh said she eats two handfuls of blueberries every morning to reap the benefits of the flavonoids and anthocyanins found in blueberries.
“You can’t eliminate risk, but early detection gives you the best chance of survival.”
Recent research has found that flavonoids may help prevent breast cancer and improve the effectiveness of cancer treatments.
Antioxidants found in red, blue, and purple fruits and vegetables have also been linked to reduced breast cancer risk and recurrence.
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“In a large study of 75,000 women, (blueberries) were shown to reduce the risk of estrogen-negative breast cancer (one of the most aggressive types),” Professor Safieh said. spoke.
4. Salmon
“I don’t like the taste of fatty fish, but I make salmon about once a week for my family because of its known health benefits,” Safieh said.
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She cited a “large” study of 883,000 women that found that women who regularly consumed fatty fish had a 14% reduced risk of breast cancer.
5. Turmeric
According to Safieh, this common spice has been shown to reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of cancer.
“Studies in colorectal patients have also shown improved survival when used in combination with conventional cancer treatments, and it has also been shown to reduce the side effects of cancer treatments.” she said.
“I try to cook with turmeric every day.”
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In addition to making healthy lifestyle choices to reduce risk, Safieh emphasized the importance of early detection to save lives.
“You can’t eliminate risk, but early detection with an annual mammogram or, depending on your risk, an ultrasound or MRI can give you the best chance of survival.”