Tips for Keeping Your Breasts Healthy

As women, it can be easy to be worried about developing breast cancer. After all, 1 in 8 women will develop this type of cancer at some point in their lives. And you probably have a family member or loved one who’s battled breast cancer. 

However, it’s important to understand that just because breast cancer is common, it doesn’t mean there isn't anything you can do to keep your breasts healthy and lower your risk for breast cancer. 

At Women’s Specialty Care in Lake Forest and Grayslake, Illinois, our team led by Karen Mass, MD, FACOG, is passionate about helping women take control of their health. So, this month’s blog highlights practical ways you can improve your breast health and reduce your risk of breast cancer. 

Obtain and maintain a healthy weight

When you carry excess pounds, your risk for breast cancer will be higher than when you’re at a healthy weight for your height and body type, especially after menopause. In fact, research suggests that those who gain even 20 pounds during menopause increase their breast cancer risk by almost 20%, and that percentage rises the more weight you gain. 

A healthy weight can look different for everyone, so make sure you check in with our team to ensure your weight is optimal for you. 

Move your body

One way you can lose weight (or maintain your current healthy weight) is through exercise. If you already have a jam-packed schedule, adding in a workout every day can seem daunting. But we want you to know that things you have on your to-do list could actually count toward your daily exercise quota. 

You should aim for about 30 minutes of exercise a day (or 150 minutes per week). This could be walking briskly, riding your bike, or doing house chores like yard work and vacuuming. Even dancing in your living room can get your heart rate up. Adding more steps in your day by taking the stairs or parking in the farthest spot at the grocery store are viable exercise options. 

Making these consistently healthy exercise choices can reduce your breast cancer risk by up to 25%!

Eat a nutrient-rich diet

A diet that’s full of nutrients that fuel your body and are low in processed ingredients and refined sugars can benefit your health in many ways, including reducing your risk for breast cancer. 

Focus on filling your plate with lots of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, and legumes to reap optimal nutrient benefits. Also, eliminate or significantly reduce foods high in saturated fat or added sugars, including fast food and pre-packaged sweets. 

Although nutrient-dense foods are always the better choice, don’t be afraid to eat your favorite “unhealthy” foods, just do it in moderation. Keep your portion sizes small so your cancer risk stays down. 

Eliminate unhealthy habits 

Drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes are two habits that are sure to affect your health. And, unfortunately, the more you practice these habits, the worse your health will become, including raising your risk for breast cancer. 

One surefire way you can reduce your risk for breast cancer and improve your physical health overall is to stop smoking and reduce or eliminate your alcohol consumption. Our team would love to help you accomplish this through attainable means. 

To learn more about how to keep your breasts healthy or any of our breast health services, schedule an appointment with our team by calling your nearest office location or using our online booking feature.