Postmenopausal obesity is one of the most prominent proven risk factors for breast cancer
Natural soy products are safe and high-concentration supplements require more studies
Yogurt and fermented milk may help in prevention because they contain calcium and vitamin D
Antioxidants in high doses may reduce the effectiveness of chemotherapy or radiation
Crash diets and detox do not cure cancer and lead to loss of muscle mass
There is no conclusive scientific evidence that organic foods prevent breast cancer
Microwave safe when used correctly, glass or ceramic containers are preferred
A balanced diet after treatment reduces the risk of relapse and improves results
Clinical nutrition specialist and Vice President of the Friends of Health Association, Areej Al-Saad, confirmed that many common myths about the relationship between food and breast cancer are still spreading despite being scientifically refuted, stressing the importance of relying on modern scientific evidence and staying away from unproven beliefs.
She explained that one of the most prominent of these myths is the belief that sugar “feeds cancer” and that cutting it leads to “starving the tumor,” stressing that there is no scientific evidence to prove this, and that the most important thing is to follow a balanced diet while controlling weight and practicing physical activity, as obesity is a proven risk factor for breast cancer after menopause.
She also denied the belief that soy or phytoestrogens are dangerous for the breast, noting that natural soy products are safe and may be preventive, while it is recommended to avoid highly concentrated supplements because there is not enough data about them.
She added that recent studies have not proven a clear relationship between dairy products and breast cancer. Rather, fermented milk such as yogurt may be beneficial because it contains calcium and vitamin D.
Regarding antioxidants, Areej Al-Saad stressed that taking them in high doses during chemotherapy or radiation therapy may reduce its effectiveness, calling for obtaining them from natural food only, unless the doctor recommends otherwise.
Regarding special diets, she explained that the ketogenic diet or therapeutic fasting have not been proven effective in curing cancer, and that following them must be under medical supervision to avoid losing weight or muscle mass.
It also indicated that artificial sweeteners have not been proven to be directly linked to breast cancer, despite the classification of some substances, such as aspartame, as potentially carcinogenic by the World Health Organization in 2023, stressing that the regulatory authorities have kept the permissible limits unchanged.
Al-Saad also denied that there is conclusive evidence that organic foods prevent breast cancer, noting that the main benefit lies in eating sufficient quantities of vegetables and fruits, regardless of their source.
Regarding home use, she explained that the microwave does not cause cancer when used safely, calling for avoiding heating food in plastic containers and replacing them with glass or ceramic.
She warned against alkaline diets or “detox” that are promoted as alternative treatments, stressing that the body regulates its acidity on its own and cannot be changed through food.
She stressed the importance of diet after treatment, explaining that the “Women’s Intervention Nutrition Study” showed a 24% reduction in the risk of relapse when following a low-fat diet, noting that adherence to the recommendations of international organizations such as “WCRF” and “AICR” related to healthy weight, balanced food, and regular physical activity, which would improve results and reduce deaths.
