Miles Hassell, M.D., medical director, Providence Integrative Medicine Program
Specific patterns of diet and exercise appear to be associated with a lower risk of developing breast cancer, as well as prostate, colon, lung and other cancers. For people who have breast cancer, these patterns also appear to improve the response to cancer therapy, reduce treatment side effects, improve survival rates and reduce the risk of recurrence. In addition, studies suggest that they reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke and dementia.
These diet and exercise patterns parallel a traditional Mediterranean diet. For the most part, they echo the recommendations of the American Cancer Society and the American Institute for Cancer Research. They may be modified to incorporate new information as it arises.
Studies suggest that the more closely you follow these diet and exercise patterns, the better your protection against cancer, as well as other serious health conditions. For optimal benefit, schedule a consultation with Providence Integrative Medicine to learn how to tailor these general recommendations to your specific situation.
