You might be able to find help fighting breast cancer and other types of cancers at your local grocery store and fitness centers, according to the research findings of Dr. Marian Neuhouser, Ph.D, RD. 

Dr. Neuhouser is a nutritional epidemiologist with a background in nutritional sciences. She is an investigator at Seattle’s Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. Her research is focused on lifestyle factors such as nutrition and physical activity. Some factors may prevent breast and prostate cancer and improve survivorship in those diagnosed with cancer.  

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, each year, more than 200,000 American women are diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 40,000 American women will die from breast cancer.

Dr. Neuhouser’s research has found that for postmenopausal women in particular, being overweight or obese may increase the risk for breast cancer.

Dr. Neuhouser explains, “After menopause, estrogens are synthesized by adipose tissue—the more adipose a woman has, the more estrogen she will make. Adipose cells also synthesize inflammatory factors, which have been linked to breast cancer.”

One of the most important things a woman at risk for breast cancer can do, says Dr. Neuhouser, is to “maintain a healthy weight."  

Given what the research indicates, Dr. Neuhouser says, “One of the most important things is that if a woman is overweight or obese, she should be advised to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. Daily physical activity and following healthy eating habits with plentiful fruits and vegetables and minimal empty calories and fried foods will help achieve these goals.”

Dr. Neuhouser says while it can be challenging to lose weight, “Small changes can add up and make a big difference."

When it comes to getting active, Dr. Neuhouser says, "If someone is not used to physical activity, try a five to ten minute walk and gradually increase the time. Having physical activity partners or walking partners always helps. I know my soccer team will be waiting for me on the field, so even if I am tired or busy, I still show up."

The North Shore Hiking and Fun group has a meetup planned for October 13 to hike around the Skokie Lagoons. The group also plans hikes around the North Shore and Chicago area. For more information on the group check out this website.

The Get Hip and Stay Fit group is a walking club for anyone who wants to get in shape while also receiving support from others. The group meets several mornings a week in Des Plaines. For more information on future meetups, check out this website.

Another option is the Niles Family Fitness Center. More than just a gym, the facility also offers massage therapy, personal training, specialty fitness classes, youth classes, sports training, camps and birthday parties. 

Locally there are many additional options to getting fit. Be sure to search fitness clubs and gyms in the Patch Directory. 

When it comes to food, Dr. Neuhouser says, "Start with making one new food change each week. Instead of eating two cookies, eat just one.”

If you are concerned about your weight, Dr. Neuhouser suggests getting the support you need by asking your doctor for “ a referral to a reputable weight loss program.” For nutrition advice, Dr. Neuhouser recommends asking for a referral to a registered dietitian.

Locally, you can find support managing your weight through various nutritionists and dietitians. Some options include:

NorthShore University HealthSystems offers outpatient nutritional services at several locations including Skokie Hospital. Registered Dietitians can help you improve your eating habits and can tailor them to your medical condition, lifestyle and food preferences with medical nutrition therapy.

AMM Food and Nutrition Consulting in Des Plaines offers guidance in menu planning, supplements and vitamins. Mossell Holistic Health Care in Park Ridge offers manual adjustment, pain relief, weight loss and nutritional counseling services including weight loss, allergy testing, HCG, massage, supplements, nutritional counseling and more.

For additional fitness and nutrition specialists be sure to check the Patch Directory at the top of the page.