5 Holiday Habits That Can Affect Your Breast Health

Holidays are wonderful for seeing family and friends, traveling, eating delicious meals and treats … and falling off whatever wagon you’re on. If you’re determined to adopt healthier habits as part of your New Year’s resolutions, start now before the holiday season gets into full swing.

Whether your breasts are currently healthy, you have a family history of breast cancer, or are being treated for or are a survivor of breast cancer, holidays can pose extra challenges for your breast health. Awareness of holiday pitfalls is the first step.

At Mass Medical Imaging, we want you to enjoy the holidays fully while staying healthy. That’s why Joseph Calandra, MD, and Karen Mass, MD — our expert breast-healthy physicians — compiled the following tips for you this holiday season.

So what new habits should you adopt and which old ones should you drop? Here is some holiday breast-health advice.

1. Skip the eggnog

Egg nog and other festive drinks go down waaaaaay too easily, giving you a high-octane dose of alcohol without even feeling the effects … until later. You may have read that the World Health Organization (WHO) stated in 2023 that “no level of alcohol consumption is safe for our health.” 

That dire warning is amplified when it comes to cancer risk, including breast cancer risk. And the warning doesn’t just apply to spirits, like the rum in eggnog. It extends across all alcoholic beverages, including wine and beer. 

Even worse, if you’re currently under treatment for breast cancer, drinking alcohol could make your tumor worse. It could also increase your risk for a second type of primary cancer, such as colorectal cancer. 

Nonalcoholic versions of your favorite holiday drinks, however, may be perfectly fine. Just be sure to limit those, as well, unless they’re sugar-free. Which brings us to:

2. Cut down on sugar plums

Sugar doesn’t “feed” cancer tumors, but you should cut down on it as much as possible. The average woman or man gains about 1 or 2 pounds during the holiday season, thanks to irresistibly rich dishes and desserts.

While that may not sound like a lot, it surely adds up over time. Additionally, it’s only an average; that means you might have historically gained more. 

The main problem with sugar — besides its pro-inflammatory properties — is that it’s empty calories. Sugar has no nutritional value. If you eat too much, you could develop insulin resistance, which might lead to type 2 diabetes. And, of course, gain weight.

Weight gain isn’t good for your breasts or your general health. Too much fat on your body boosts your estrogen, which is a powerful fuel for breast cancer tumors. 

3. Go for the bean dip

Before heading for the tempting treats, fill up on as many fiber-rich foods as possible, such as beans and vegetables. If that doesn’t sound too appetizing, then imagine a delicious plate of cut veggies that you can dip into hummus or a Mexican bean dip.

Other bean and legume dishes can also be fulfilling and satisfying, on every level. Rich, warm lentil soup, black bean burritos or enchiladas, and roasted vegetables can all be transformed into festive and colorful treats.

4. Have a snowball fight

You may not be able to hit the gym while you’re jumping on planes, trains, and automobiles, but that’s no excuse to turn into a couch potato au gratin. Find ways to stay active. 

Help clean up after holiday get-togethers. Take walks through the winter wonderland. Have a snowball fight with your kids or other young relatives. Go ice-skating. Revamp a favorite childhood game for the adult crowd when you’re with your siblings or other relatives.

5. Share your family and personal history

Family get-togethers are also a good time to exchange information about your family’s cancer history. Even though your mom’s side of the family may be cancer-free, you’re also more at risk for breast cancer if your dad’s side of the family has a history of breast, prostate, or other cancers.

If you have breast cancer, you may want to schedule time to talk about it with your relatives. First, they may be at risk. Second, they could be a much-needed source of support. Feel free to express your true feelings about the holidays and your health; they can help provide you with choices that make being breast-healthy easier.

Before the New Year rolls around, resolve to book a breast screening if you’re due. Call our team today at 847-235-2415 or use our online appointment form.