After any illness it will take some time to regain your health and proper nutrition and sensible exercise are two of the most important factors for a speedy recovery. Apart from that, it is also true that a recovering patient would want to do whatever it takes to prevent an occurrence of the disease. Breast cancer can reoccur and while there are some risk factors in cancer that can't be controlled, a nutritious diet is within the patient’s means.
According to Melanie Polk, director at the American Institute for Cancer Research, the research done about the best foods for cancer survivors is much more limited compared to the research done about cancer-preventive foods. She further states that it makes sense to believe that cancer-preventive foods will have the same value for breast cancer survivors as a preventive measurement against a recurrence of the illness.
Overweight
It is also true that overweight is one of the risk factors for breast cancer and the importance of eating a balanced diet that will keep your weight in the healthy weight range, cannot be ignored. The easiest and most sensible way to prevent weight gain is to stay away from fatty and fried foods. Processed food is also a big culprit in weight gain. The ideal is to focus on fresh fruit and vegetables, lean protein and whole grain products. Many fruits and vegetables have been identified as possible cancer-preventive food and those should be eaten in abundance. The best fruit and vegetables are those that haven't been subjected to mass farming techniques. Rather buy your fruit and vegetables from farmers or organic markets where you have the guarantee that they are free from pesticides and other possible harmful elements.
Protein
Protein- rich food is important during, as well as after breast cancer treatment, to help the body to regain its strength after the therapy. Keep the meat lean and give preference to white meat such as turkey and chicken. Cold-water fish is an excellent form of protein with many health benefits. Mackerel, salmon and sardines are all good choices.
Fruit and Vegetables
In this food range dark green vegetables and all orange food such as pumpkin, apricots and carrots are some of the best options. Other significant vegetables that are believed to be effective in cancer prevention are those from the genus Allium, which include onions, garlic and leeks.
Fiber
Fiber found in whole-grain products, beans, lentils and peas is an essential part of any diet for a healthy digestive system. The anti-oxidants in whole-grains and beans have cancer-fighting abilities and there are some researchers who believe these antioxidants are equal to those in fruit and vegetables.
Supplements
Breast cancer survivors should take notice of the controversy surrounding the nutritional benefits of supplements. Your health care practitioner should be aware of all supplements you intend to take and should approve them or rather prescribe supplements if there is a need to supplement your diet.
While good nutrition is essential after breast cancer treatment the benefits of regular exercise must also be emphasized. Patients should seek assistance from their doctor regarding the type and level of exercise that would be the most suitable to their specific situation.