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The best lifestyle practices to keep your breasts healthy

By Dr. Sajjan Rajpurohit in Breast Cancer

Nov 29 , 2022 | 3 min read

We take care of our breasts in a lot of ways. We wear bras that fit well and can help support them, we stay active by doing regular exercises (like pelvic floor exercises) and we go to the doctor regularly to get proper screening. But have you ever considered what your lifestyle habits might be doing to your breasts? Read this blog post to find out!

The Importance Of Breast Health

It is no secret that breasts are often seen as a symbol of femininity and sexuality. But while they may be aesthetically pleasing, it is essential to remember that they are also functional body parts that must be kept healthy. Unfortunately, breast cancer is the second most prevalent type of cancer among women, which is why it's so important to be proactive about breast health. Whether you're doing a self-exam of breast at home or getting a mammogram at the doctor's office, here are some tips for keeping your breasts healthy:

Know your body: The best way to catch any changes in your breasts is to know what's normal for you. That means being familiar with how your breasts look and feel regularly. If you notice any changes in size, shape, texture, or appearance, discuss it with your doctor.
Stay active: Exercise is important for overall health but can also reduce your risk of developing breast cancer. Even moderate exercise can make a difference, so aim for 30 minutes of physical activity for 3-5 days.
Eat healthily: A nutritious diet is good for your whole body and includes your breasts. Fill up on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein like chicken and fish. And limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol to help keep your weight in check.

Risk Factors For Breast Cancer

Many risk factors contribute to breast cancer, some of which you can control and others that you cannot. One important thing you can do to lower the risk is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Here are some specific lifestyle practices that can help keep your breasts healthy:

Maintain a healthy weight- Being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing breast cancer. So, aim to keep your weight in a healthy range.
Get regular exercise. Exercise has many benefits, including reducing your risk of breast cancer. So, get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each day.
Limit alcohol consumption. Drinking alcohol increases the risk of developing breast cancer. So, limit your intake to one drink per day or quit the alcohol.
Don't smoke cigarettes. Smoking can make one more prone to develop breast cancer. So, quitting is the best way to reduce your risk if you smoke.
Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals and radiation. Exposure to certain chemicals and radiation can increase your risk of developing breast cancer. So, try to limit your exposure as much as possible.

What To Eat And Avoid

Regarding breast health, what you eat is as important as what you avoid. Here is a general guideline for healthy eating:

Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. They are high in antioxidants and fibre, which can help protect against breast cancer.
Limit your intake of processed foods, red meat, and alcohol. These foods can increase your risk of breast cancer.
Consider taking a daily multivitamin. This can help fill in any nutritional gaps in your diet.

Following these healthy eating guidelines can help keep your breasts healthy and lower your risk of developing breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Prevention Tips

Many things can be done to help prevent breast cancer. Some lifestyle practices that can keep your breasts healthy include:

Regular exercise: Exercise reduces the risk of developing breast cancer. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity every day.
Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Maintain a healthy weight by eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly.
Limit alcohol consumption: Consuming alcohol can make one more prone to breast cancer. If you drink alcohol, limit your intake to no more than one drink per day.
Don't smoke: Smoking increases the risk of developing breast cancer. Quit as soon as possible, if you smoke.

Conclusion

Various things can be done to keep your breasts healthy, but some lifestyle practices are better than others. Overall, the best thing one can do for their breasts is to maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced, nutritious diet, and exercise regularly. Additionally, it's essential to limit your alcohol intake and avoid smoking. By following these tips, you'll be on your way to keeping your breasts healthy for years.