The widely spread benefits of leading an active life are well known but research suggests that exercise is key when it comes to lowering the risk of breast cancer as well!
Working out and keeping a healthy weight range is great for your physical and mental health, but if you are also worried about breast cancer, it is one more reason why you should start a workout routine today!
As per the Cleveland Clinic, the study proves that decreasing body fat and increasing your activity levels significantly lowers the risk of breast cancer in menopausal people.
The research was published in JAMA Oncology and involved a randomized trial over a full year.
It was able to discover that 300 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise per week was more effective than the alternative of only 150 minutes in reducing the fat percentage in postmenopausal people.
Furthermore, as the study reads: “These results suggest additional benefit of higher volume aerobic exercise for adiposity outcomes and possibly a significantly lower risk of postmenopausal breast cancer. Reduction in body fat levels may play a role in reducing breast cancer risk.”
Similarly, the National Cancer Institute has also pointed out that active people are able to lower their breast cancer risk by 12 – 21 percent when compared to those living more sedentary lives.
This conclusion was reached back in 2016 by meta-analyzing other 38 cohort studies in the same field.
With that being said, it makes a lot of sense that the Mayo Clinic recommends exercising and trying to maintain a healthy weight, pointing out that “Most healthy adults should aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity or around 75 minutes of vigorous activity weekly, plus some strength training at least twice a week.”
Of course, that’s not to say that nutrition does not also play a big role in lowering the risk of breast cancer.
The Mayo Clinic explained this in regards to following the Mediterranean diet but any healthy diet is obviously beneficial.
The clinic writes on their official webpage that “Women who eat a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra virgin olive oil and mixed nuts may have a reduced risk of breast cancer. The Mediterranean diet focuses on mostly on plant based foods, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, vegetables, and nuts. Those who follow the Mediterranean diet choose healthy fats, like olive oil, over butter and also eat fish instead of red meat.”
There are also other ways to lower the risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer at a point in your life,
One of them is limiting your alcohol consumption, limiting postmenopausal hormone therapy and even breastfeeding!
The clinic goes on to encourage patients to be vigilant when it comes to early detection of breast cancer.
The way you can do this is: “If you notice changes in your breasts, such as any new lumps or skin changes, consult a doctor. Also, ask your doctor when to start getting mammograms and other screenings based on your personal history.”