Three Beverages That Can Increase the Risk of Breast Cancer

 By Dr.Kristie


Most women are concerned about preventing breast cancer – and for good reason. With the rate of breast cancer as high as one in seven, taking steps to lead a healthy lifestyle is important for all women regardless of their risk factors. Although there are no definitive studies demonstrating that a specific diet works to prevent breast cancer, there is some evidence that eating a diet in fruits and vegetables – particularly cruciferous vegetables – may tilt the odds in your favor. Surprisingly, what you drink- and what you don’t drink - may be important too when it comes to preventing breast cancer. Here are three common beverages that could raise your breast cancer risk.

Beverages That Raise Breast Cancer Risk: Grapefruit Juice
There’s both good and bad when it comes to grapefruit juice and cancer risk. For people who are undergoing cancer treatment, grapefruit juice may be beneficial. A study showed that grapefruit juice boosts the potency of some cancer treatment drugs by blocking an enzyme that breaks them down. Some doctors are currently using grapefruit juice to enhance the effects of some cancer drugs. (although this should only be done under a doctor’s care). On the other hand, a study of 50,000 post-menopausal women showed that drinking grapefruit juice and eating grapefruit may increase the risk of post-menopausal breast cancer by slowing down the breakdown of estrogen which stimulates breast cells to proliferate.


Beverages That Raise Breast Cancer Risk: Alcoholic Beverages
Alcohol, particularly red wine, may have benefits for your heart, but women should think twice before ordering a drink. Studies clearly show that drinking alcohol increases breast cancer risk – even as little as one alcoholic beverage a day. This is true for all drinks containing alcohol – even wine. For women, it’s best to get those heart healthy flavonoids from alcohol-free red wine or grape juice instead.


Beverages That Raise Breast Cancer Risk: Coffee
It was recently discovered that coffee contains a compound called trigonelline that has estrogen-like activity – meaning it can stimulate breast cells to proliferate in the laboratory. There’s still no definitive data that coffee increases breast cancer risk – in fact some studies show that it reduces the risk in women who are at high risk due to genetic mutations – but the finding that a component in coffee has estrogenic activity should raise red flags. On the other hand, coffee is a good source of antioxidants. The key may be to drink coffee in moderation and to avoid it entirely if you have a history of breast cancer.


Beverages That Raise Breast Cancer Risk: The Bottom Line?


If you’re concerned about your risk of breast cancer, it’s best to avoid grapefruit juice and alcoholic beverages completely, and drink coffee in moderation. Consider a healthier alternative such as green tea. The good news? A recent study showed that drinking green tea modestly reduces the risk of breast cancer.



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