October is right around the corner, which means we’re thinking pink!
A recent study found that women who began the Mediterranean Diet (and therefore increased their intake of extra virgin olive oil) had a 62 percent lower risk of breast cancer over the next five years.
We learned about the Spanish study’s findings on the Today show.
Because the 4,282 women who participated in the study were randomly assigned different diets, the findings are considered particularly strong. It accounts for the possibility that people who choose to follow a certain healthy diet pattern may do other things differently, too (i.e. live generally healthier lifestyles compared to the study’s counterparts).
We’ve kept our eye on the Mediterranean Diet for other reasons, too. It has been linked to longer life spans and a decrease in heart disease, while also cutting the risk of heart attacks and strokes by 30 percent. It’s also been proven to to help maintain cognitive abilities.
Since it is October, start thinking about ways to reduce your own risk of breast cancer. The St. Elizabeth Mobile Mammography Van should be rolling into a location near you. Schedule a mammogram and encourage your friends to do the same.
Also, if you haven’t already, consider signing up for the 9th Annual Kate Geiger Breast Cancer Walk at Pendery Park on October 18 to show your support for women who have battled breast cancer.
