After treatment ends, the evidence points to a Mediterranean-style, high-quality diet: plenty of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, fish and olive oil, with legumes and soy, and less total and saturated fat. In a meta-analysis, higher diet quality was linked to a 23% lower risk of death among breast cancer survivors, with each 10-point rise in diet quality scores associated with 9% lower mortality.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of dietary patterns in cancer survivors found that better diet quality is associated with improved survival in breast and colorectal cancer survivors. The pattern that performed best: Mediterranean-style eating — higher fiber and soy intake, and lower total and saturated fat.
The Mediterranean pattern's core fat, used in place of butter and processed oils.
The fiber-rich base — fiber intake was associated with better outcomes in the analysis.
Fish several times a week; legumes and soy products as protein partners.
Higher intake of soy and legumes appeared in the favorable pattern.
Lower intakes were part of the survival-favorable pattern.
Food safety and quality remain priorities in recovery — the oncology nutrition guidance stresses whole foods.