According to a study, following a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra virgin olive oil can decrease the risk of breast cancer in women by 68%.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, and it is estimated that one in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Therefore, finding ways to reduce the risk of breast cancer is essential. According to a recent study, following a Mediterranean diet can decrease the risk of breast cancer in women.

The Mediterranean diet is a dietary pattern that emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, fish, and olive oil. It is based on the traditional dietary habits of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, such as Italy, Greece, and Spain. The Mediterranean diet has numerous health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Evidence suggests that it may also lower the risk of breast cancer in women.

The study involved 4,282 women aged between 60 and 80 from Spain, who were followed up between 2003 and 2009. The participants were divided into two groups. The first group followed a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra virgin olive oil, the second group followed a Mediterranean diet supplemented with nuts, and the third group followed a low-fat diet.

The study results showed that women who followed the Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra virgin olive oil had a 68% lower risk of developing breast cancer than those who followed a low-fat diet. In contrast, the study found that the Mediterranean diet supplemented with nuts did not have a significant effect on breast cancer risk.

The researchers noted that the beneficial effect of the Mediterranean diet on breast cancer risk may be due to several factors.

For example, the Mediterranean diet is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which may help protect against breast cancer. Additionally, the Mediterranean diet may help reduce insulin resistance and lower levels of estrogen, both of which have been linked to breast cancer risk.

It’s worth noting that this study is observational, meaning that it cannot prove causation. Nevertheless, the results of the study are encouraging and add to the growing body of evidence suggesting that a Mediterranean diet is a healthy dietary pattern that can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as breast cancer.

Following a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra virgin olive oil may reduce the risk of breast cancer in women. While more research is needed to confirm the findings, adopting a Mediterranean diet is a healthy lifestyle choice that can offer numerous health benefits. If you want to lower your risk of breast cancer, consider incorporating whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, fish, and olive oil into your diet. Not only will you be doing your health a favor, but your taste buds will thank you too!