How Diet Can Affect Breast Cancer Risk

CLEVELAND - October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and many people may be wondering how to lower their risk.

While factors like genetics and age are out of our hands, there are other risk factors we're in control of.

"Some risk factors for breast cancer are modifiable, and diet is one of them. Certain things we eat can put us more at risk for developing the disease,” explained Michela Palma, RD, a registered dietitian at Cleveland Clinic.

When it comes to breast cancer risk, Palma said to limit or avoid ultraprocessed foods, added sugars and alcohol.

Alcohol is linked to an increased risk of several cancers – while ultraprocessed foods and added sugars can contribute to obesity and other conditions that may raise cancer risk over time.

Instead, Palma recommends eating fiber-rich foods, including whole grains, fruits and vegetables – along with lean protein such as poultry, fish, eggs and beans.

Since there's no single superfood that can prevent breast cancer, Palma saidit's best to focus on eating more whole foods overall.

And with so much information about nutrition circulating online, be sure to run questions by a trusted source if they come up.

"Bring nutrition questions to your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian. Nutrition isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, and everyone's needs are different. They can help you work through all that information and see what's going to work best for you,” Palma said.

Palma added that a healthy diet alone can'teliminate breast cancer risk.

That's why it's important to discuss your family health history with a healthcare provider and keep up with recommended breast cancer screenings.