There are times in our life that challenge us to our very core, shaping our lives in profound ways. Breast health has been one such challenge for several of the SLiB family. Their journey has been marked by courage, uncertainty, and determination. This article has been written with them at the heart.
Here I share my naturopathic approach to support the body’s natural healing processes, enhance overall wellbeing, and minimise side effects of treatment.
I first consider the underlying vitality of my client. Usually this will mean supporting adrenal health and blood sugar balance, as well as boosting hydration and digestion. We then typically work to balance the gut followed by supporting detoxification.
It is important to support the body’s natural detoxification processes to eliminate toxins and metabolic waste products. This may involve dietary interventions, targeted supplementation, hydrotherapy, and other methods to support detoxification (such as replacing conventional with natural beauty and cleaning products).
I always start with nutrition… yes always! A balanced and nutrient-rich diet to support overall health and immune function is essential. Let’s take a closer look.
Nutrition
I recommend enjoying largely a plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. These foods are high in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that support overall health.
Include a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables, different colours indicate different phytonutrients. Aim to eat a rainbow of fruits and vegetables to ensure a diverse range of nutrients.
Incorporate cruciferous vegetables, such as, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage. These vegetables contain compounds like sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol, which supports oestrogen metabolism and clearance. Cruciferous vegetables are not recommended for those with a suppressed thyroid function.
Choose healthy fats, including those found in avocados, olive oil, nuts, seeds, and oily fish, such as, salmon. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and help reduce inflammation.
Eat lean sources of protein, such as, poultry, fish, and legumes. Protein is essential for tissue repair and immune function, especially during treatment and recovery.
Enjoy whole grains, such as, brown rice, quinoa, oats, and barley over refined grains. Whole grains are rich in fibre, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and provide sustained energy.
Minimise processed and refined foods, sugary snacks, and sugary beverages (including products labelled sugar free), as these contribute to inflammation.
Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration is essential for overall health, digestion, detoxification, and cellular function.
If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and consider opting for red wine occasionally, which contains antioxidants like resveratrol.
Supplements and Herbal Remedies
Certain supplements and remedies support immune function, reduce inflammation, and alleviate side effects of conventional treatments. This includes vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, curcumin, and green tea extract. Antioxidants are essential for any preventative protocol; however, they need to be included at the appropriate time as may impair some treatments.
Astragalus and echinacea also support immune function, while herbs like chamomile and lemon balm may help alleviate anxiety and improve sleep quality. Chamomile is wonderfully calming before bed. Lemon balm chilled is a refreshing drink – great as we come into Summer. With all herbal remedies check for contraindications, for example, echinacea should not be taken in cases of autoimmune conditions.
Electro Bush Flower essence is also highly beneficial post chemotherapy and radiotherapy, although should not be taken during.
Mind-body Connection
Meditation, yoga, acupuncture, and kinesiology help reduce stress, improve emotional wellbeing, and enhance overall quality of life for us all. They can also help manage treatment-related symptoms, such as, pain, nausea, and fatigue.
Kinesiology has wonderful balancing techniques to support the lymphatic system, scar work and injury recall (to shed the cellular memory). My favourite at home technique to ease breast congestion is to hold a breast and then rub up the iliotibial band the same side as the breast. Body brushing is also beneficial but consult with your healthcare professional if undergoing active treatment.
Exercise, stress management, adequate sleep, and maintaining a healthy weight are essential for optimal health and can reduce chances of reoccurrence.
While naturopathic interventions are not intended to replace conventional medical treatments, they can be used as a complementary approach to support overall health.
Best wishes
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