Foods That Help Manage HER2-Negative Breast Cancer

Understanding HER2-Negative Breast Cancer

HER2-negative breast cancer is a subtype of breast cancer that does not overexpress the HER2 gene. This means the cancer cells have normal levels of HER2 receptors on their surface. About 70% of all breast cancers are HER2-negative.

While a HER2-negative diagnosis generally indicates a less aggressive form of breast cancer, it still requires treatment. Common treatments include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy. The good news is there are many things you can do through diet and lifestyle to help manage HER2-negative breast cancer and support your overall health during treatment.

The Anti-Cancer Diet

Research shows that certain foods can help fight cancer growth and recurrence. Focus on incorporating more of these beneficial foods into your diet:

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables contain beneficial vitamins, minerals, fiber, and plant compounds. They are also low in calories, so they can help maintain a healthy weight. Aim for at least 2-3 servings of fruit and 2-3 servings of vegetables daily. Some especially beneficial options include:

• Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and kale contain sulforaphane, which helps eliminate toxins and protect healthy cells.
• Berries are packed with antioxidants like anthocyanins that can inhibit cancer cell growth.
• Citrus fruits contain vitamin C, folate, and antioxidant bioflavonoids.
• Tomatoes are rich in the antioxidant lycopene, which has been studied for its anti-cancer effects.

Whole Grains

Choose whole grain varieties of bread, pasta, rice, oats, quinoa, and other grains. Whole grains provide important nutrients like fiber, B vitamins, selenium, and phytonutrients. The fiber also supports digestive health and helps remove toxins from the body.

Legumes

Beans, lentils, peas, and peanuts are rich sources of plant-based protein and fiber. They also contain compounds like saponins, protease inhibitors, and phytic acid that may have anti-cancer effects. Try to eat legumes several times per week.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They also contain antioxidants like vitamin E that can help protect cells from damage. Some of the most nutritious options are walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, and flaxseeds.

Herbs and Spices

Herbs and spices add flavor to food without extra calories, fat, or sugar. Many also provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Try seasoning your foods with garlic, turmeric, ginger, oregano, cinnamon, and other healing spices.

Green Tea

Enjoying a few cups of green tea each day can provide antioxidants like EGCG that have been shown to inhibit cancer growth and spread in lab studies. Just be sure not to drink it too piping hot.

Foods to Limit

You'll also want to limit or avoid the following:

• Refined carbs: Limit added sugars, white bread, pastries, crackers, and other refined carbs. These spike blood sugar and can promote inflammation.
• Processed meats: Deli meats, sausages, hot dogs, and bacon contain nitrites that can damage cells. They're also high in saturated fat.
• Fried foods: Foods cooked at high heat like french fries contain acrylamide, a potential carcinogen.
• Excess alcohol: Stick to no more than 1 drink per day for women. Too much alcohol is linked to increased cancer risk.

Managing Treatment Side Effects With Food

It's also important to eat the right foods to help you get through treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation with fewer side effects.

Preventing Weight Loss

Unintended weight loss is common during breast cancer treatment. Nausea, poor appetite, digestive issues, and increased metabolic needs can all contribute. To maintain your weight and meet increased calorie needs:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day
• Opt for nutrient-dense soft foods and smoothies if chewing and swallowing are difficult
• Drink calorie-containing beverages like milk and smoothies
• Try ginger, peppermint, or chamomile tea to reduce nausea

Reducing Fatigue

Fatigue is another common side effect of treatment. To help combat tiredness and low energy:

• Eat foods high in iron like red meat, spinach, and beans
• Choose energizing snacks like apples with peanut butter, hummus and veggies, or hard boiled eggs
• Stay hydrated with water, herbal tea, broth, and diluted juices

Managing Digestive Issues

Digestive problems like constipation, diarrhea, gas, and bloating are unfortunately common. Try these dietary strategies:

• Drink plenty of fluids like water, soup broths, and herbal teas
• Eat more high fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds
• Include probiotic foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables
• Limit dairy, greasy foods, processed items, and sugary drinks which can irritate the GI tract
• Walk and stay active - light exercise can help stimulate bowel movements

Boosting Immunity

Your immune system is your number one defense against disease. Support your body's ability to fight infection by:

• Eating plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables
• Choosing lean protein sources like fish, skinless poultry, eggs, beans and legumes
• Cooking with immune-supporting garlic, turmeric, and ginger
• Avoiding excess sugar, refined carbs, processed foods, and alcohol which can suppress immunity

Supplements to Discuss With Your Doctor

Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, but here are some that may help:

Probiotics

Probiotics provide healthy gut bacteria that support digestion and immunity. They may also limit side effects of treatment medications.

Vitamin D

Many cancer patients are low in vitamin D. Supplementation may help regulate cell growth and immune function.

Fish oil

The omega-3 fats in fish oil have anti-inflammatory effects that may inhibit cancer growth factors.

Curcumin

Curcumin is the active compound in turmeric. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may fight cancer cells.

Lifestyle Changes

Diet is just one part of the equation. Be sure to also focus on:

• Getting regular physical activity
• Achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight
• Limiting alcohol intake
• Not smoking or quitting if you currently smoke
• Reducing stress through meditation, yoga, journaling, or other activities
• Getting enough sleep and rest

Making positive lifestyle changes along with eating the right cancer-fighting foods can help you manage HER2-negative breast cancer and promote overall wellbeing.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.