One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
Conversely, ananti-inflammatory dietmay have preventive benefits for each of these diseases.
Komar explains, “Inflammation is sometimes confusing, because it may seem contradictory.
On one hand, inflammation is a healthy process, allowing the body’s ability to heal itself.
This is acute inflammation, the good inflammation.
When inflammation persists, it may become dangerous; a condition called chronic low-grade inflammation.
“When you don’t have an infection or injury, inflammation can potentially damage healthy tissues.
Chronic, low-grade inflammation is inflammation that never really resolves.
It’s the opposite of ‘good’ inflammation and may actually damage DNA,” says Komar.
This is particularly troublesome for those who are undergoing treatment for cancer as it potentially fuels the tumor.
The process also may generate molecules called free radicals that further damage the DNA.
These inflammation side effects may help sustain and fuel cancer growth.”
Berries
Fruit is nature’s candy.
Whereasrefined sugarcan be inflammatory in excess and should be limited during treatment, fruit is anti-inflammatory.
Cruciferous Vegetables
There is a reason you were always asked to eat your greens.
Veggies provide nutrients that are vital to fighting inflammation and maintaining proper body function.
Packed with vitamins and minerals, veggies are also an excellent source of fiber.
Herbs and Spices
Often overlooked as a source of nutrition,herbs and spicesprovide excellent anti-inflammatory properties.
When adding turmeric to recipes, also add a pinch of black pepper to boost absorption of curcumin.
Gingeris a root that can reduce inflammation and pain, making it extremely helpful to those undergoing treatment.
Studies have also found that consuming ginger helps alleviate the nausea and vomiting that many patients experience with chemotherapy.
Cinnamonis a spice that has been commonly used since 2800 B.C.
Garlicisn’t just a delicious way to add depth of flavor to your dishes.
Fish
Protein is essential to the formation, maintenance and repair of body tissues.
As theCOVID-19 pandemichit, so did Theresa’s treatment protocol.
She also found comfort and nutrition in teas and broths.
“I sipped on broth or tea a lot!
She would typically start her day withlemon ginger teaand also sipped peppermint tea with licorice and ginger-turmeric tea.
Keep trying, be flexible and focus on eating small portions slowly and frequently.”
The Bottom Line
If you or someone you love is going through treatment, take care.
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2016;39(Supplement_2):S244-S252.
doi:10.2337/dcs15-3015
American College of Cardiology.Cardiovascular Diseases in Chronic Inflammatory Disorders.
2017;7(1).
2020;6(1).
doi:10.1038/s41523-020-00179-4
Mills RC.Breast cancer survivors, Common markers of inflammation, and Exercise: A Narrative review.Breast Cancer.
2017;6(10):92. doi:10.3390/foods6100092
Singletary K.Ginger.Nutrition Today.
2015;8(3):181-189. doi:10.1158/1940-6207.capr-14-0172
