Hi Everyone! October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so I have been devoting some of my posts this month on the topic. Today we are going to look at some of the lifestyle measures we can (and should!) all take to help prevent breast cancer. To help prevent breast cancer, try these lifestyle measures:

Help Prevent Breast Cancer – 5 Tips

1. 1. Get – And Stay – Active. 30 minutes of regular physical activity most days of the week can be protective against breast cancer. Obviously this one is close to my heart, as I think daily exercise it so important for a wide variety of reasons. So if you have trouble either starting a workout plan or sticking with it, try a free trial of my 10-Week Plan, where I guide you through daily workouts, or visit my workout blog and try my free workouts. ANY exercise is good exercise, and every minute counts, so squeeze in your fitness however you can!!
   2. Keep Up With Your Doctor Appointments. Early detection is so important, as it can make a difference in how long and what type of treatment you may need. So do your monthly self exams, and talk with your doctor about what she thinks is the best cadence for you to get professional exams and mammograms. If you are scared of mammograms, make a day of it – have some friends schedule their mammograms on the same day, at the same place – it will likely make you not only stick to your appointment, but make you feel better to have a support system around you, regardless of the results!
   3. Make Sure Your Diet Is Optimal. Folic acid (found in dark green veggies, beans and lentils), vitamin D (egg yolks, cheese and fortified foods are easy sources of vitamin D), and antioxidants (reach for more fruits, veggies and nuts) may all help decrease the risk of breast cancer, so make sure your intake of these is optimal. If you are unsure, ask your doctor or consult a nutritionist.
   4. Know Your History. Your personal risk of breast cancer is increased if you have close relatives who have been diagnosed. So get to know your family health tree, and keep your doctors apprised of such – that way she can give you recommendations tailored to you and your lifestyle to help lower your risk.
   5. And Know The Signs. Here are the signs to look out for that may indicate breast cancer – if you have any of these, contact your doctor:
   • • A lump
   • • An increase in the size or number of veins in part or all of one breast
     • A nipple that points in a different direction than it used to
     • A dimpled area on the breast where the skin is pulling in
     • Redness or a prominent poor in the breast skin
     • Shape or change, such as a bulge or dip
     • A rash or eczema-like patch on the breast, or a sore on a nipple
     • Nipple discharge

And remember – if you find a sign, try not to worry too much – the best course of action is to see your doctor and determine what is really going on. You are worth it!

Lets get fitter, together – inside and out,

Denise

P.S. – Read my other posts on breast cancer:

Finding Strength While Fighting Breast Cancer – about my niece’s journey
Breast Cancer Awareness: Food Choices – for foods you should add to, and eliminate from, your diet

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