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Breast Health & Breast Cancer Prevention and Treatment

Nutrition is a key component to living a healthy life. What we eat influences everything from our weight to how we feel. More importantly, nutrition also influences our overall health, including our susceptibility to certain diseases and illnesses. When it comes to breast health, dietary choices can have a significant impact on reducing the risk of developing breast cancer.

Consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and other foods high in fiber is crucial. Incorporating flax into your diet is a great way to boost fiber intake. Flax lignans also contain phytoestrogens, which benefit the body in many different ways. Many studies have been conducted regarding the phytoestrogens present in lignans, and findings suggest they contain cancer-fighting properties. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology revealed lignans might improve the survival rate of those diagnosed with postmenopausal breast cancer. The increased survival rate is due to the phytoestrogen binding to estrogen receptors, which prevent cancer cells from growing.

In addition to reproductive tissue, estrogen receptors can be found in numerous other tissues such as in the bone, liver, heart, and brain. Studies have suggested that lignans can benefit these organs as well, and aid in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer. When consumed, both types of lignans, secoisolariciresinol (SDG) and hydroxymatairesinol (HMR), are converted to mammalian phytoestrogens. Enterodiol (END) and enterolactone (ENL), mammalian phytoestrogens found in the colon, may help protect against breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men.An article published by The American Institute for Cancer Research supports this theory. According to the article, research reveals there is a lower risk of cancer for those who consume foods high in dietary fiber, like flax lignans.

Important Note: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. It is up to the individual reading this to seek expert medical advice and not rely on this information to diagnose, treat, prevent, or attempt to cure any disease.