Over the years, hormones, particularly estrogen, have been viewed with skepticism regarding breast cancer.
While estrogen is vital to women’s health, improper metabolism can raise breast cancer risk. Interestingly, estrogen is not singular; estradiol, estriol, and estrone each play unique roles, with estrone being the riskiest for cancer development.
Hormone therapy, especially during menopause, is often misunderstood. Although widely avoided due to cancer concerns, recent studies, like the MISSION Study in France, show that bioidentical hormone therapy—which mimics natural hormones—does not increase breast cancer risk as synthetic hormones might.
Recent studies, such as the MISSION Study conducted in France, followed over 6,700 women for more than eight years. Findings show that bioidentical hormone therapy—which uses natural hormones closely resembling those produced by the body—does not increase breast cancer risk, unlike synthetic hormones.
Source: Holtorf, Kent, MD. “The Debate on Bioidentical Hormone Therapy: Are Bioidentical Hormones (Estradiol, Progesterone, and Estriol) Safer or More Effective Than Synthetic Versions Used in Hormone Replacement Therapy?” Postgraduate Medicine. Vol. 121, No. 1. January 2009. pp. 1-13.
Nutrition and Lifestyle: Key Allies
Beyond estrogen management, diet and lifestyle are pivotal in cancer prevention.
Vitamin D Supplementation
Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, according to research from the Moores Cancer Center. This vitamin is essential for cellular and hormonal health. It can be obtained through sun exposure or supplements, especially if you live in areas with limited sunlight.
Source: Am J Epidemiol. 2008; 168(8):915‐24 (ISSN: 1476‐6256) Blackmore KM ; LesoskyM Barnett H ; Raboud JM ; Viet R ; Knight JA Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital.
Iodine and Selenium
Found in fish, seaweed, and nuts, these nutrients provide protective effects. A study by the National Autonomous University of Mexico even shows iodine can halt tumor growth when combined with chemotherapy.
Turmeric
Known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, curcumin in turmeric helps prevent tumor cell proliferation, making it an excellent health ally.
Exercise and Stress Management
Regular exercise and stress reduction are vital for hormonal balance. Chronic stress elevates cortisol, disrupting hormone health and potentially increasing cancer risk. Practices like meditation and yoga can effectively reduce stress levels.
Breast cancer is influenced not only by genetics but also by daily choices. From diet to stress management, each choice helps keep hormones balanced and reduce risk.
It's essential to stay informed and make conscious health decisions. Don’t let myths prevent you from exploring treatments that could enhance your quality of life.
For more information, we recommend watching our live session on Breast Cancer.
Comments