How are you helping this month?
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, so throughout October the we try to bring as much awareness and raise as much money that we possible can.
Have you done your bit yet, or what do you have planned?
Around 50,000 people are diagnosed with breast cancer each year and about 300 of these people are men - it affects everyone.
Freelance Dieticians, a specialist group of the British Dietic Association (BDA), are helping to support Breast Cancer Awareness month with some facts and tips to reduce the risk.
The highest risk is in women over the age of 50, however, dietary and lifestyle factors such as increased rates of obesity, high alcohol intake, high fat and low fibre diets have all been blamed for the observed increased rates of breast cancer, although a clear link has yet to be found.
Early diagnosis is critical and taking preventatice measure by adopting a health diet and lifestyle is certainly a step in the right direction of lowering your rsik. 
Tips from Freelance Dieticians on how you can reduce your risk of developing breast cancer:
Maintain a healthy weight
Choose healthy foods, meals and snacks such as wholegrains, fruit, low-fat dairy products and nuts. Stay active and engage in regular exercise. A healthy body mass index (BMI) ranges between 18.5-25 for women. Although it is not the sole indicator of a healthy body, it is useful as an indicator of body status. Your BMI is calculated using your weight in kilograms (kg) and height in metres (m), with the formula BMI = weight/height2
Eat plenty of plant- based foods such as fruits and vegetables
The intake of fibre (lignins) from fruits and vegetables and isoflavones (from soya, beans and legumes) have been linked to a lowered risk for developing breast cancer. Aim for at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables per day. For practical ways to increase your fruit and vegetable intake, visit the British Dietetic Association website for more information.
Reduce saturated fat intake
Replacing saturated fats (from animal products) with poly- and monounsaturated fats such as those found in olive oil, nuts and avocados.
Salt and sugar
Reduce salt intake by avoiding processed food as well as cured and pickled foods. In addition, avoid using extra salt at the table. Avoid eating refined sugars such as those found in biscuits, cakes and pastries.
Limit alcohol intake
Knowing your limit is important. A high alcohol consumption has been linked with increased risk of breast cancer. Therefore, limit your intake to 2-3 units per day or a maximum of 14 units per week and have some alcohol free days. One unit of alcohol is equal to ½ a standard glass of wine (175ml).
Femalefirst Taryn Davies
Tagged in Breast Cancer Health