Women with early-stage breast cancer may live longer if they maintain a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy, say researchers from Kaiser Permanente in Oakland, California.
In a new study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, 1,901 women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer were asked to complete questionnaires on their diet, exercise habits, weight and other health factors.
After eight years, women with the highest intakes of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy foods were about half as likely to die when compared to their peers with the lowest intake of these healthier foods - regardless of the size of their breast tumour or other factors affecting mortality.
Research has shown that a diet that's high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and poultry, and low in red meat and refined carbohydrates can prevent breast cancer and other chronic diseases.
This study shows that eating a more healthful diet is beneficial for overall survival after a cancer diagnosis.
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among Canadian women. In 2008, an estimated 22,400 women were diagnosed with breast cancer and 5,300 will die of it.
For more information on how diet can affect cancer survival, read Leslie Beck's Foods that Fight Disease.
All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.