Nutrition for breast cancer care and recovery

When it comes to breast cancer, food can be a powerful tool for prevention, healing, and long-term health.

At Loma Linda University Cancer Center, dietitian Erica Grace Paulson, MS, RD, spends her days guiding patients through the maze of nutrition questions that surface during one of life's toughest journeys.

Prevention starts on the plate

Paulson says two common lifestyle choices stand out for cancer prevention: processed meats and alcohol.

Processed meats like bacon, hot dogs, and deli slices contain nitrates, which the World Health Organization classifies as carcinogenic.

"I recommend no more than once or twice a month, but none is best," says Paulson.

Alcohol is another concern. While past guidelines suggested one daily drink for women, new research shows no safe level of alcohol consumption. Paulson encourages patients to abstain from alcohol, especially during treatment when the liver and kidneys are under extra strain.

Soy, once considered risky for estrogen-positive breast cancer, is now better understood. Paulson explains that while early animal studies raised alarms, human studies show moderate soy intake like tofu, soy milk, or edamame is protective.

Eating through treatment

For patients actively undergoing chemotherapy, food becomes more than fuel, it's medicine. Side effects like nausea, dry skin, and appetite loss make eating difficult.

Paulson recommends small, frequent meals. Eating every 2-3 hours, even light snacks, helps keep nausea at bay.

Protein should also be a priority. "If we don't get enough protein, the body starts breaking down muscle for recovery," she says.

Shakes with yogurt, nut butters, or fruit are an easy way to get nutrients throughout the day. Foods like nuts, seeds, olive oil, and salmon strengthen the skin barrier and help with dryness. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables fight fatigue and chemo brain, while still allowing the occasional comfort food.

"Your carbs and protein should be best friends - don't let them go without each other," says Paulson. An apple with nut butter, crackers with hummus, or a smoothie can provide both comfort and balance.

Myths and mistakes

Paulson says one of the biggest misconceptions is that sugar feeds cancer. While cancer cells do use glucose for energy, so does every healthy cell in the body. Cutting out all carbs can leave patients too weak to complete treatment.

Another common mistake is focusing on weight loss during treatment. "This is not the time to diet," Paulson stresses. "You actually need more calories and protein than before."

Supplements are another area where patients need caution. "Breast cancer patients use supplements more than any other group, but many interact negatively with treatment. Always talk with your care team first," she says.

Life beyond treatment

For survivors and families, Paulson emphasizes meal planning and cultural balance. Prepping proteins, vegetables, and healthy carbs ahead of time makes healthy eating easier. Honoring cultural foods is possible with small adjustments, like adding roasted vegetables or lean proteins.

"I don't want food to feel like another burden," she says. "It's about adding healthy things in, not taking everything away."

Nutrition is one way to take control of your health, but regular screenings save lives, too. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, put your health first and schedule a screening today.