Breast Cancer Awareness month reminds us that this all too common form of cancer impacts women of all ages: approximately one in nine will be afflicted. Research shows that diet during childhood as well as later in life can lower breast cancer risk and help protect from recurrence of cancer. Here are some simple diet and lifestyle strategies for protection.  

• Eat low fat: Limiting fatty foods such as creamy sauces and heavy meats helps lower risk. Research suggests that low-fat diets inhibit rogue cancer cells from taking hold and spreading.
• Pile on the veggies: May sound like a lot, but eating five servings (1/2 cup = serving) daily of colorful veggies, either raw or cooked, provides cancer-fighting compounds. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts contain indoles, which are one of the most potent cancer-blocking agents in foods. Aim for several servings of these veggies weekly.
• Moderate alcohol: While alcohol in the form of wine and beer may be heart healthy, for some women frequent drinking boosts breast cancer risk. Check with your physician about whether you can drink moderately based upon your family history for this disease (moderate = one beer, or 5 oz. wine or 1 ½ oz. distilled spirits such as vodka per day.)
• Keep body weight in check: Most women put on 2 or more pounds every year and this gain of excess body fat ups breast cancer risk. Scientists have made a connection with high body fat levels and the hormone estrogen, which promotes certain forms of breast cancer. Walking 30 to 60 minutes daily can lower cancer risk and help prevent the gain of extra pounds.