• Olive Oil

  A healthy dietary fat, olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. An analysis of cancer studies over the last 11 years found that high intake of olive oil correlated to lower odds of developing any type of cancer—including breast cancer.

• Omega 3s

  Essential fatty acids, omega 3s are found in oily fish such as mackerel, sardines, albacore tuna, and salmon as well as in supplement form. Research indicates that women who eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may be less likely to develop breast cancer.

• Fiber

  If you’re eating your fruits and vegetables, you’ve got a good start on a high-fiber diet. Now add whole grains to boost your intake. The effect could be significant: A team of nutritionists in China gathered research from 10 earlier studies on women’s diets and cancer risk and found that women who consumed the most dietary fiber were 11 percent less likely to develop breast cancer than those who ate the least.

  The same review determined that every 10-gram-per-day increase in dietary fiber intake was associated with a 7 percent reduction in breast cancer risk.

While these are important, even essential, one factor many women may not consider is the importance of optimal detoxification. Here we answer some common questions about the connection between environmental toxins, detoxification and breast health.

Questions About Breast Health and Detox

• Can our environment cause breast cancer?

  We know that some of the toxins we are exposed to are, in fact, carcinogens or cancer causing; however, cancer is a multifactorial illness with more than one cause. That said, the scientific literature is making it clear that many toxins we are exposed to can contribute to our risk of developing cancer.

  Environmental toxins that have been linked to breast cancer include: pesticides, heavy metals, organochlorines (DDT, hexachlorobenze, dioxins), and air pollutants.

  This link is why it becomes so critical to try to reduce our exposure and support the body’s innate ability to detoxify these chemicals.

• Because we are exposed to toxins in the air, water and even the foods we eat, it can be overwhelming. Is there anything really that we can do?

  It’s true that these toxins have become omnipresent and our exposure is extensive. It’s also true that we can limit some of our exposure to environmental toxins.

  The key is to focus on controllable risks. For example, avoid second-hand smoke, don’t microwave foods in plastic, and choose organic foods when possible.

  Another key part of a detoxification strategy is to improve our defenses. We can support the body’s ability to get rid of the toxins by exercising, maintaining adequate hydration, obtaining sufficient sleep, eating foods that support detoxification such as cruciferous vegetables (cauliflower, cabbage, kale, broccoli) and taking certain dietary supplements.

• Which dietary supplements support optimal detoxification?

  The good news is that there are dietary supplements that support detoxification.

  Generalized detoxification support for women may include the following key ingredients:

  • Glutathione

    This “master antioxidant” is critical for elimination of environmental pollutants and is a key nutrient for optimal liver function.

    We recommend Setria glutathione for effective detoxification.

  • Green Tea

    Studies show that EGCG, the active compound in green tea stimulates important detoxification enzymes, stimulates cell repair, and can block DNA-damaging effects of environmental toxins.

  • Milk Thistle Extract (Silybum marianum)

    This herb contains potent liver antioxidants, which also support the processing of toxins into nonreactive compounds that are excreted before they can cause harm.

  • Fiber

    One of the keys to detoxification is healthy bowel function and fiber supplements improve bowel regularity and stool consistency that also facilitates the removal of toxins and prevents their reabsorption back into the blood.

• How do I start a detoxification program?

  It is best to develop an individualized plan under the guidance of a trained healthcare professional who specializes in environmental medicine. Naturopathic doctors, holistic and integrative conventional doctors, and integrative chiropractors represent a good place to start your search for a provider.

The Silent Spring Institute has a list of things you can do to reduce your exposure to chemicals thought to play a part in breast cancer development.

Reducing Exposure to Possible Carcinogens

The Silent Spring Institute's tips include:

• eat organic food whenever possible
• avoid canned food (and checking labels for the presence of BPA)
• choose natural fiber clothing and furnishings
• make your own cleaning supplies (including laundry soap)
• watch for phthalates and parabens listed in the ingredients of personal care and household products

Organizations Against Breast Cancer

Other organizations working on these issues include:

• Breast Cancer Action
• National Women’s Health Network
• Breast Cancer Fund
• National Breast Cancer Coalition
• Safer Chemicals/Healthy Families