A healthy diet, regular exercise, and key nutritional supplements may help prevent or reverse breast cancer, say James F. Balch, M.D., and Phyllis A. Balch, authors of "Prescription For Nutritional Healing."
The Facts
According to the National Cancer Institute, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime. Breast cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in women in the United States.
Function
Your body requires certain nutrients to maintain health and for optimal functioning. Modern processing and cooking methods can strip food of nutrients, but supplements such as vitamins D and E, melatonin and beta-carotene may offer a solution.
Research
According to Dr. James F. Balch, a lack of vitamins D and E puts you at risk for breast cancer. Studies by the National Cancer Institute have determined that reduced melatonin---a sleep hormone---may also increase risk.
Warnings
Some supplements interfere with prescription medications. Use alternative treatments with guidance from your health-care provider.
Considerations
The American Cancer Society recommends a healthy diet with an emphasis on plant sources---five or more servings of vegetables and fruits each day, whole grains instead of refined grains, and limited consumption of processed and red meats.
Tags: breast cancer, Cancer Institute, healthy diet, James Balch, National Cancer, National Cancer Institute
