“New Year, new you” tends to be a common mantra among Americans at the start of January. So naturally, one of the first areas we try to improve is our health.
Though weight loss, pursuing a nutrient-dense diet, and taking care of our mental health are all resolutions we hope to achieve, improving our breast health should be at the top of the list!
Scheduling annual mammograms and performing regular breast self-checks can help you stay proactive in your journey to better health. But most importantly, it could save your life.
In fact, since 1989, mammography and advanced treatments have reduced breast cancer mortality rates in America by 43%. Moreover, that number is likely to improve as more women become aware and practice early detection methods to help identify abnormalities before they develop into more severe issues.
If you’d like to schedule your annual mammogram today, you can fill out an online form, call us at (763) 398-6370, or walk in during regular business hours.
In addition to regular screenings, modifying certain lifestyle habits and behaviors may also help reduce your risk of developing breast cancer. This may include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, avoiding alcohol and processed foods, and taking certain vitamins for breast health.
5 Supplements for Breast Health
Curious about which supplements can support women’s breath health? Read on to learn more!
Vitamin D
Women with low vitamin D levels may be at risk of developing breast cancer. The recommended amount of vitamin D for women ages 14 to 70 is 600 IU per day. The best source of this essential vitamin is from the sun; however, during the winter months, it’s much harder to ensure you’re getting sufficient vitamin D exposure.
Therefore, your provider may recommend a vitamin D supplement, which may help reduce your risk of breast cancer and control healthy cell growth.
Curcumin
For over 2,000 years, curcumin has been recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation. But this yellow chemical compound found in Turmeric may also help prevent certain diseases, including breast cancer.
Furthermore, research suggests curcumin may also reduce the spread of certain cancers and improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy by protecting healthy cells.
Fish Oil
Fish like salmon, tuna, or trout contain Omega-3 fatty acids, which may help reduce your risk of developing breast cancer. It’s recommended that you consume at most 2-3 servings of Omega-3 fatty acids a week. However, if you don’t like fish or worry about high levels of mercury, fish oil supplements are a good substitution.
Flaxseed
Another great source of Omega-3, flaxseed may contain cancer-fighting properties to help reduce breast cancer cell growth. It’s also available in whole and ground forms. Therefore, you can easily add it to recipes, salads, yogurts, and other tasty dishes.
Sulforaphane
Studies have shown that sulforaphane, produced in the body after you eat broccoli, may help decrease the progression of breast cancer cells. If you’re already a fan of broccoli and other cruciferous veggies (e.g., Brussels sprouts, kale, cauliflower, etc.), you may not need to pay for this supplement, however.
Talk to your provider about how many servings you should eat daily. Doing so will ensure you’re getting enough of this essential compound to enjoy its health benefits.
A quick note on vitamins and supplements for breast health
Always consult your clinician before starting a new supplement for breast health. Remember that we also receive essential nutrients from the foods we eat. Therefore, it’s important to understand how much you’re consuming each day. This can help you avoid getting too much or too little of certain vitamins and minerals.
Improving Breast Health in the New Year
Pursuing a healthy lifestyle that combines nutrition with physical activity is one step to combating breast cancer. However, annual screening mammograms, beginning at age 40, are proven to help catch breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stage.
At The Breast Center of Maple Grove, we make it easy to fit your annual mammogram into your busy schedule. We offer convenient, same-day appointments every Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. and extended hours on Tuesday until 8 p.m.
If you’re due for your mammogram, you can make an appointment now, or walk right into our center conveniently located across from Maple Grove Hospital.
