Mindfulness Intervention for Breast Cancer Survivors

This trial explores how an online mindfulness and nutrition program can help breast cancer survivors improve their diet. Participants will either join the MIND program (Mindfulness Intervention for Nutrition in the Digital Kitchen), which includes self-paced lessons on nutrition and cooking, or remain on a waitlist for six weeks. The goal is to determine if the program can boost fruit and vegetable intake and overall diet quality. This trial may suit individuals who have had stage I-III breast cancer in the past five years and consume fewer than five servings of fruits and vegetables daily. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to explore innovative ways to enhance dietary habits and overall well-being.

The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, certain therapies like HER2-targeted therapies, CDK4/6 inhibitors, endocrine therapy, PARP inhibitors, and zolendronic acid are allowed, so you may not need to stop these if you are taking them.

Research has shown that mindfulness programs, such as the Mindfulness Intervention for Nutrition in the Digital Kitchen (MIND) program, are generally safe for breast cancer survivors. These programs teach healthy eating and mindfulness in an online format. Studies on similar programs have found that participants usually have a positive experience without major side effects.

Researchers are excited about the Mindfulness Intervention for Nutrition in the Digital Kitchen (MIND) program because it offers a holistic approach, combining nutrition education, cooking skills, and mindfulness practice, which is a departure from the usual focus on medication or standard care treatments for breast cancer survivors. Unlike standard care, which typically emphasizes medical follow-up and physical health, the MIND program empowers patients to engage in self-paced learning and skill-building in their own homes, promoting long-term lifestyle changes. This innovative approach could enhance overall well-being and recovery by addressing mental and emotional health alongside physical nutrition, making it an appealing complement to traditional care methods.

Research has shown that mindfulness and nutrition programs can help breast cancer survivors adopt healthier eating habits. Participants in similar programs have increased their intake of fruits and vegetables. Mindful eating has been associated with improved dietary choices. In this trial, participants in Arm A will engage in the MIND program, which includes online nutrition lessons, cooking demonstrations, and mindfulness exercises. This approach aims to assist breast cancer survivors in making healthier food choices, potentially leading to better overall health. Meanwhile, participants in Arm B will follow standard care for six weeks and may optionally access the MIND program afterward.¹²³⁵⁶