Looking to reduce your risk of breast cancer? A recent study published in the Nutrients journal compared the impacts of Western and Mediterranean diets on breast cancer risk, and found that the Mediterranean diet may be the way to go. The study reviewed the active compounds of both diets believed to be vital in breast cancer prevention and found that the Western diet, which is high in unhealthy lipids and trans fats, was associated with elevated risks of invasive lobular and ductal carcinomas. In contrast, the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in vegetables, fruits, fish, and olive oil, was linked to a decreased incidence of these types of breast cancer. The positive outcome is attributed to the regular intake of flavonoids, fiber, and antioxidants derived from food, which are believed to decrease estrogen levels, increase sex hormone proportions, neutralize free radicals, safeguard DNA from damage, and reduce oxidative stress. Overall, incorporating nutrient-dense foods like those found in the Mediterranean diet, along with regular physical activity and moderate alcohol consumption, may help reduce your risk of breast cancer.
