Three Myths About Breast Cancer

Sugar and sugar-sweetened foods and beverages are not directly linked to cancer risk or the effectiveness of cancer treatment. Eating sugar is not shown to cause cancer, or to make cancer worse. A diet high in sugar-sweetened foods and beverages can contribute to weight gain, and obesity is linked to several types of cancer, including post-menopausal breast cancer. While cutting back on added sugar is a good choice, you don’t have to avoid sugar entirely. Sugar can be enjoyed as part of an overall healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and appropriate physical activity.

Supplements are often marketed for cancer prevention. However, research shows that nutritional supplements don’t offer the same benefits as eating whole foods. It is best to meet nutritional needs from a well-balanced, plant-based diet. When building your plate, aim for at least two-thirds (2/3) of your plate to be filled with plant foods such as whole grains, fruit and beans.  The remaining one-third (1/3) of your plate may be filled with animal-based protein rich foods such as seafood or poultry, and occasionally with lean and red meat. During cancer treatments, such as radiation, surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted therapy, taking dietary supplements can cause unwanted reactions and side effects and may hinder the effectiveness of the treatments. Because of these concerns, many cancer experts advise people to avoid dietary supplements while getting cancer treatment. But if you decide to take supplements, be sure to discuss this with your cancer care team before any treatment. They can help you understand whether a product might be safe for you.

Following an alkaline diet, consuming alkaline water, or taking alkaline supplements are not supported by research to prevent or cure cancer and therefore not recommended. No matter what you eat, your body systems work together to keep blood pH at a healthy level. Instead, follow a well-balanced, plant-based diet that includes alkaline-rich foods that are high in fiber, minerals, and vitamins, like vegetables, fruit, nuts, and legumes.