Breast cancer is one of the forerunners in the number of diseases that affect and kill a large number of women annually. It depends on a large number of risk factors, and depending on the way it spreads to other tissues of the body, there are different kinds of breast cancers as well. It is mostly said to affect middle aged women, but it can practically affect any adult woman irrespective of the age group.

There are some visible symptoms of breast cancer, like a hard lump in the breast or the armpit, unusual bleeding from the nipples, discoloration or inversion of the nipples, changes in the size of the breasts and nipples etc. It is usually identified by self-examination, mammography and other tests. Treatment largely depends on the stage and type of breast cancer.

That being said, it is not completely incurable, if diagnosed at the right time and given proper medical care. Also, it is said that for most of the women the cancer runs in the genes but lifestyle also plays a huge role in it. Certain changes in your food habits could probably save you from this disease.

Here, we will discuss 7 foods that are really helpful in protecting women from breast cancer. Below is the list of these foods-

7 Powerful Foods That Protect Women From Breast Cancer

1. Green Tea

Green tea is tied to a number of benefits ranging from weight loss to blood pressure management. The popular brew has also been the subject of ongoing study in animals and humans for its role in cancer prevention. That’s because green tea is high in polyphenol and catechins. These antioxidants may help protect cells from DNA damage caused by free radicals. More research is needed to prove its efficacy, but there’s no harm in adding a cup to your daily routine. Green tea also aids in weight loss, so it is a win-win situation for you!

2. Berries

Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and black raspberries contain high amounts of polyphenols, which may have anticancer properties, as discussed above. They’re also high in antioxidants such as vitamin C. There is some evidence that berries may help reduce breast cancer risk. No current recommendation exists for daily dosage, though one serving of fruit is equivalent to 3/4 to 1 cup of berries. If you are not allergic to them or suffering from diabetes, then it is safe to add berries to your diet.

3. Whole grains

Whole-grain foods also tend to be high in anti-cancer polyphenols. They often include other key nutrients such as fiber, magnesium, and protein. Popular whole-grain options include: brown rice, oatmeal, corn, faro and barley. Whole grains are easily digestible and healthier than refined grains, which are known to cause cancer on regular consumption.

4. Garlic

Garlic is a part of the allium vegetable family. It is known for its distinctive taste and aroma. There may be a connection between increased intake of garlic, other allium vegetables such as onions and a reduction in the growth of breast cancer cells. The effects of garlic and other allium vegetables on breast cancer cells have been analyzed by a few researchers. They found a positive effect on both estrogen-dependent and estrogen-independent breast cancer. While promising, more research on garlic and breast cancer risk is needed to determine conclusive results and a dosage recommendation. Nevertheless, you can definitely include garlic in your diet, for it has an abundance of health benefits and a great taste too!

5. Turmeric

A spice associated with Indian cuisine, turmeric contains curcumin, a substance with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some research suggests that curcumin may help decrease the toxic effects of certain breast cancer cells and can potentially inhibit cancer cell growth. More research is needed to determine its full effects on cancerous cells. Curcumin is unstable in water and may be poorly absorbed. Despite curcumin’s instability, many animal and human studies to date do show benefit from taking curcumin. But there are numerous other health benefits of turmeric too, so you won’t regret adding it to your diet.

6. Walnuts

Walnuts contain many nutrients and healthy omega-3 fatty acids which may help your body fight inflammation. Research also suggests that walnuts may actually slow the growth of breast cancer tumors in mice, so this nut could be a helpful addition to your meals.

7. Fish

Fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. That makes it a smart lean protein source  and a great addition to a breast cancer prevention plan because anti-cancer nutrition recommendations suggest limiting your intake of red meat and processed meats, including bacon and packaged deli meats. Opt for salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna because all of them are rich in omega-3s; therefore they are perfect as breast cancer prevention diet choices.

It is to be cleared that no food has been thoroughly researched and proven to be an absolutely essential food to prevent breast cancer. There is no specific scientific claim behind it. But these foods have certain nutrients, which might reduce your overall breast cancer risk which is why they are recommended. Also, they have other nutrients which are good for you anyway.

As mentioned in the article, keep checking for the symptoms of breast cancer, as you grow older. Have a mammography test done once a year to ensure that there is no risk of this disease. Remember, if diagnosed at the right time, you can control this deadly disease.