A new study suggests older women who had breast cancer have less chance of death compared to their diet counterparts when they follow a low-fat diet.

The comparison looked at a low-fat diet limited to fat intake no more than 20 percent of calories compared to a more typical so-called Western diet with fat intake of more than 32 percent of calories.

These findings may not be entirely surprising given the long-known connection between high-fat diets and breast cancer. However, it is important to note the likelihood for women who have received a breast cancer diagnosis is about 20 percent fewer deaths after breast cancer in the low-fat group than the usual or typical diet group. 

The findings do not prove cause and effect, but they do show how it may be an area of future study to further determine and understand the importance of low-fat diets and relation to mortality rates among women who have had breast cancer.

The study suggested that women should continue a low-fat diet to see the benefits noted in the study.

Typically, breast cancer has long been associated with post-menopausal, overweight women. This is thought to be due to the higher levels of circulating estrogen, since fat cells produce estrogen.

As a breast cancer survivor of 15 years, I believe news like this is good to educate women that our health is the number one thing to cherish and protect. After living through such a life-changing event, I know first hand how health needs to be at the top of your list.

I am dedicated with helping other women learn from my experience. I am happy to share my story, inform others about how to live healthier lives and of course, assist them with our freshly prepared meals. Our meals are ideal since they are portion and calorie-controlled and are low in fat, saturated fat and cholesterol.

Prevention is key, so mammograms and monthly self-breast examines are still gold standard to do so. Diet, exercise and limiting alcohol are also important to prevent breast cancer.