Breast cancer – a diagnosis no one wants to hear, as it often leads to immense stress and fear, both of which are natural responses. However, these emotions could increase the risk of aggressive cancer and reduce the chances of survival. To combat this, a strategic program can be implemented to support overall health while managing cancer development from various angles. Central to this is practicing mind-body stress-relief techniques.
Stress Relief for Cancer Patients
It’s important not to underestimate stress as a potential harm to us, given its numerous links to cancer. Chronic stress can result in shortened telomeres, activation of pro-cancer genes, immune cell death and increased inflammatory cell signals. Social isolation can worsen these feelings, inducing further stress and increasing the risk of cancer progression.
Thankfully, developing a regular practice of mind-body stress relief techniques, such as meditation or yoga, can actually improve the chances of fighting cancer. These activities can reduce inflammatory markers, strengthen the immune system, and increase telomere length as well as positively impact gene expression. Meditation, in particular, has been widely shown to address various health conditions.
Other proven stress-relief methods include gentle exercise, spending time outdoors, socializing, creative pursuits, music, and volunteering.
Diet and Breast Cancer
In addition to stress-relief practices, a healthy diet can also lower the risks of aggressive breast cancer. An effective diet would ideally be anti-inflammatory and alkaline, emphasizing low glycemic index foods while avoiding processed foods, high-fat commercial dairy, and overcooked meats.
Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, and kale, play a crucial role in fighting cancer. They contain glucosinolates and other phytonutrients that inhibit cancer growth, block metastasis, detoxify cancer-causing compounds, balance hormones, and reduce inflammation.
Nutritional supplements can also help maintain breast health. Comprehensive breast care formulas shown in studies to promote healthy breast cell growth contain DIM (diindolylmethane), botanically enhanced medicinal mushrooms, quercetin, turmeric, Chinese skullcap, and astragalus root. Each ingredient has various health benefits that research is still uncovering. Modified citrus pectin, when taken alongside the breast care formulation, can boost the effects of the formula. Also, botanically enhanced medicinal mushroom formulas can also offer aid in breast cellular health support.
New Research and Treatment Approaches
Through continuous research and refinements in treatment, care, and prevention, our understanding of breast cancer and attempts to manage it continue to improve. Studies in key areas, such as stress relief, antioxidant-rich diets, exercise, and weight management, help provide women with new ways to support breast health, while also promoting overall vitality.
For more information on breast cancer treatment, visit the National Breast Cancer Foundation or the American Cancer Society.
