The Role of Plant-Based Diets in Improving Physical, Emotional, and Social Functioning in Breast Cancer Survivors

ABSTRACT:

Breast cancer survivorship has unique challenges in the physical, emotional, and social domains of health. There is emerging evidence that plant-based dietary patterns may bring significant benefits to breast cancer survivors through a variety of biological mechanisms and lifestyle factors. This review outlines the current state of research into the relationship between plant-based diets and quality of life outcomes among survivors of breast cancer, covering physical functioning, psychosocial wellbeing, and social health. The review draws together epidemiological studies, clinical trials, and mechanistic research to provide a comprehensive understanding of how plant-based nutrition could support survivorship care. Evidence exists to show that plant-based diets high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are related to weight management, less fatigue, improved physical function, improved emotional health, and increased social interaction among survivors. These seem to be mediated by anti-inflammatory and hormonal effects, improvement in gut microbiota composition, and psychosocial factors associated with self-efficacy in lifestyle changes. Although there are methodological limitations, the balance of evidence supports the incorporation of plant-based dietary counselling into comprehensive survivorship care programs.

Keywords: Breast Cancer Survivors, Plant-Based Diet, Quality Of Life, Physical Functioning, Emotional Health, Social WellBeing.