If I include more fruits and vegetables in my diet, will this help me reduce my risk of breast cancer?

Eating 5-9 servings of fruits and/or vegetables daily not only protects you against breast cancer, but also cancers of the lung, colon, mouth, esophagus, stomach, pharynx, and heart disease. The nutritional benefits of fruits and vegetables provide protective effects against breast cancer.

Nutritional Benefits Protective Effects Low Fat Obesity which may risk of breast cancer after menopause. High Fiber 25-30 grams daily help bind levels of circulating estrogen which can promote tumor growth. Rich In Antioxidants (Vitamins, C, E, Beta Carotene and Selenium) Oxidative DNA damage caused by free radicals. Rich In Phytochemicals (Plant Chemicals), Indoles, Flavonoids, & Lignans Indoles found in cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, and brussel sprouts) stimulate enzyme that make estrogen less effective.

It's easy to meet the recommended 5-9 servings daily, since the serving sizes are small (1 medium fruit, cup fruit juice, 1 cup leafy vegetables, or 1 cup cooked vegetables). As goals for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, try new low-fat recipes featuring fruits and vegetables each week or experiment with exotic fruits and vegetables.

Check out this website:
Dole 5-A-Day: www.dole5aday.com

Celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Indulge In Fruits & Vegetables !!!

I was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and scheduled to start chemotherapy in one week. One of my friends advised me to eat more protein rich foods to help me get through the chemotherapy. Which foods are highest in protein?

Cancer and chemotherapy may produce a "stress" on the body, therefore, increasing protein needs. Dietary protein provides the body with amino acids which are used to repair body tissues and helps maintain immune function to fight infection. The main sources of protein are meat, fish, chicken, dried beans, and dairy products.

For breast cancer patients, it is recommended to select "lowfat" sources of high protein food sources such as lean pork, skim milk, nonfat or lowfat yogurts and cheeses, skinless chicken breast, fish, egg whites, dried beans or "lite" tofu. Eating these "healthier" high protein foods prevents unwanted weight gain which is common in women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Which internet sites are best resources for breast cancer and nutrition?

American Institute for Cancer Research - http://www.aicr.org
American Cancer Society - www.cancer.org
American Institute for Cancer Research - www.aicr.org
Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) - www.cspinet.org