The breast cancer is the type of cancer that kills more women worldwide.
Estimates indicate that for every 4 cases of the disease, one is breast cancer, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
But a study found that eating nuts every day can slow the growth of breast cancer.
Women who had had tests to confirm the diagnosis of the disease were divided into two groups. The first one ate about 30 grams of nuts every day and the second did not.
After 2 weeks, a follow-up biopsy was performed. The scientists found that the women who consumed the nuts had their tumor reduced.
Experts believe that walnuts activate genes that promote the death of cancer cells. However, they still do not know which substance, present in the nut, brings these benefits. For this reason, they recommend that other studies be done in the area.
The research was done at Marshall University in the United States. The result was published in the journal Nutrition Research.
How to prevent breast cancer?
Some tips can help prevent risk factors for breast cancer:
- Breastfeeding: breastfeeding helps the mother to prevent breast cancer in addition to protecting the baby from obesity. The baby’s movement to suck the milk “exfoliates” the breast tissue, so all cells that could be infected are replaced with new cells;
- Physical activity: the more you move your body, the more protection you will have against cancer. Regular physical exercise is important, especially to maintain body weight.
- Food: taking care of food also helps to prevent cancer. Fruits, vegetables, legumes and cereals should be present daily at meals, while fats, sugars and processed foods should be avoided;
- Alcoholic beverages: the higher the dose and frequency of alcohol consumption, the more likely you are to develop breast cancer and other types of cancer. If excessive consumption is combined with smoking, the chances are even greater;
- Practice self-examination: self- examination should be done on the 7th day after menstruation. After menopause, choose a day in the month and do it, observing lumps or changes in size and texture. The procedure is only a first precautionary measure and does not replace consultation with the gynecologist.
If it is discovered and treated early, breast cancer can be cured in up to 98% of cases. The diagnostic test for breast cancer is mammography , which must be done every two years by women over 45 years of age.
Breast cancer can be cured. Rich and variable food combined with some care (self-examination, for example) can help prevent this disease.
