When diagnosed with breast cancer, oncologists check to see if you have HER2-positive or HER2-negative breast cancer. The type of cancer is diagnosed based on tests that check if there is HER2 protein present in the breast tissue. A positive test means HER2-positive cancer, while a negative test means HER2-negative cancer. Either cancer can be estrogen-positive or progesterone-positive, and in rare cases, it could be triple-positive. Out of all breast cancers, around 80% of them are estrogen-positive.
Your diet plays a large role in managing and overcoming your cancer, which is why we have put together a list of foods that are essential for your body and ones that should be avoided.
When managing estrogen-positive breast cancer, it’s essential to consider dietary choices because some foods can influence estrogen levels in the body.
Here are some foods that are generally recommended to avoid:
- High-Fat Dairy Products: Some studies suggest that high-fat dairy products might be linked to an increased risk of breast cancer recurrence, possibly due to the presence of estrogenic hormones in fat.
- Red Meat: Consuming large amounts of red meat has been associated with a higher risk of certain types of breast cancer. Red meat can also have high levels of saturated fat, which might affect estrogen metabolism.
- Alcohol: Alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. It can raise estrogen levels and other hormones associated with hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer.
- Refined Carbohydrates and Sugars: High intake of refined carbs and sugar can lead to higher insulin levels and potentially stimulate cancer growth.
- Soy Products (in large quantities): While soy contains isoflavones that can mimic estrogen, moderate consumption might not be harmful, and some studies suggest it might even be beneficial. However, consuming large amounts of soy products like soy milk and tofu might influence estrogen levels.
- Processed Meats: These often contain preservatives that might have carcinogenic properties and are best avoided when managing any type of cancer.
- Conventional Produce with High Pesticide Residue: Some pesticides can act as xenoestrogens, which mimic estrogen in the body. Opting for organic produce when possible can help minimize exposure.
A recommended diet for estrogen receptor-positive (ER-positive) breast cancer aims to support overall health while potentially helping to manage hormone levels.
Here’s a guide to a diet that might benefit individuals with ER-positive breast cancer:
Whole Foods
– Fruits and Vegetables: A diet rich in a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables can provide antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage. Examples include berries, leafy greens, carrots, and peppers.
– Whole Grains: Choose whole grains over refined grains, as they provide more fiber, which helps regulate hormones. Good choices are quinoa, barley, whole wheat, and oats.
Low-Fat and High-Fiber Foods
– Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are excellent sources of fiber and protein without the fat content of some animal proteins.
– Low-Fat Dairy Alternatives: Opt for low-fat or non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, low-fat yogurt, and other plant-based options to reduce saturated fat intake.
Lean Proteins
– Fish and Poultry: Incorporate lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, and fish (especially fatty types like salmon and mackerel rich in omega-3 fatty acids).
– Plant-Based Proteins: Items like tofu, tempeh (moderately, due to phytoestrogens), and seitan can be good alternatives to red meat.
Healthy Fats
– Nuts and Seeds: Including flaxseeds, which contain lignans that might have a protective effect against breast cancer.
– Olive Oil: Use olive oil for cooking instead of butter or other fats high in saturated fats.
Antioxidant-Rich Foods
– Turmeric, Green Tea, and Berries: These contain powerful antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system.
Hydration
– Water: Ensuring adequate hydration is crucial for maintaining all body functions, including detoxification and cellular health.
Supplements
Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements, especially those like vitamin D and calcium, which could support bone health during cancer treatments that might impact bone density.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Breast Cancer
Omega-3 fatty acids may have a significant impact on breast cancer by influencing cell mechanisms and protein expressions associated with cancer growth.
Key findings from research about Omega-3 fatty acids:
1. Can modulate tumor suppressor proteins and may down-regulate HER2 protein expressions in breast cancer cells, which are often overexpressed in aggressive breast cancers
2. Can alter the expression and activity of receptors such as HER2 and estrogen receptors in breast cancer cells, potentially inhibiting cancer progression.
3. Might reduce the risk of developing estrogen-positive breast cancer and have been shown to impact the overall cell viability in cancerous cells through their anti-inflammatory and immune-enhancing properties.
Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
To incorporate omega-3 fatty acids into your diet, consider these nutritious sources:
- Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, sardines, trout, and herring are excellent sources.
- Seeds: Flaxseeds, chia seeds, and hemp seeds are high in omega-3s and can be added to yogurts, smoothies, and salads.
- Nuts: Walnuts and butternuts provide a good plant-based source of omega-3s.
- Plant Oils: Flaxseed oil, canola oil, soybean oil, and walnut oil are alternatives for cooking or dressing that are rich in omega-3s.
- Algae and Supplements: Algae oil is a direct plant source of omega-3s, beneficial for those on a vegan diet.
- Fortified Foods: Some dairy products, eggs, and juices are fortified with omega-3s and can help in increasing your intake.
Personalization and Monitoring your diet and supplements
It’s crucial to personalize dietary choices based on individual health status, treatments, and responses. Regular consultations with a health care professional who specializes in oncology can help tailor dietary and supplement choices to support treatment and recovery.
