Can Breast Cancer Patients Safely Consume Soy Products During Chemotherapy?

Q: Can Breast Cancer Patients Safely Consume Soy Products During Chemotherapy?

Hello, Xiaozhi： Regarding your question about whether breast cancer patients should avoid soy products, after discussions with the oncologist and nutritionist at our hospital, it is suggested that there is currently no effective evidence proving that breast cancer patients cannot

Is it true that breast cancer patients should avoid soy products?

Hello Doctor: My mother is 53 years old and has stage I breast cancer without metastasis.
She is currently undergoing chemotherapy.
The doctor provided us with a list of items that should be avoided, including ginseng, angelica, royal jelly, and hormones, among others.
However, the nurse administering the chemotherapy told my mother that foods like soybeans contain hormones, so she should avoid anything made from soy, such as soy milk.
Is this correct? Additionally, I am consuming a product called Tianzhongbao, which is said to be a good nutritional supplement for cancer patients, but it is also derived from soy.
I am unsure if this product is beneficial for breast cancer patients.
Could you please provide some guidance on this? Thank you, Doctor.

Xiao Zhi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/05/26

Dr. Lai Jihong reply Surgery

Hello, Xiaozhi: Regarding your question about whether breast cancer patients should avoid soy products, after discussions with the oncologist and nutritionist at our hospital, it is suggested that there is currently no effective evidence proving that breast cancer patients cannot consume soy products.
Soy contains isoflavones, which are "phytoestrogens" that have been shown to inhibit estrogen levels in the body, potentially preventing the development of malignant tumors and helping to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Reports indicate that a study published by the National Cancer Center in Japan found that women who consume miso soup daily have a lower risk of developing breast cancer.
Similar findings have been reported in studies conducted in Europe and the United States regarding soy products and breast cancer prevention.
Wishing your mother a speedy recovery!

Reply Date: 2010/05/26

More Info

When it comes to the consumption of soy products during chemotherapy for breast cancer patients, the topic is quite nuanced and requires careful consideration. Soy products, such as soy milk and tofu, contain phytoestrogens, which are plant-derived compounds that can mimic estrogen in the body. This has raised concerns among both patients and healthcare providers regarding their safety, especially for individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer.

The concern stems from the fact that estrogen can promote the growth of certain types of breast cancer cells. Therefore, some oncologists advise against the consumption of soy products during treatment, particularly if the cancer is estrogen receptor-positive (ER+). However, recent research has shown that moderate consumption of soy foods may not have a detrimental effect on breast cancer outcomes and might even be beneficial in some cases. For instance, studies suggest that soy may have a protective effect against breast cancer recurrence, particularly in Asian populations where soy consumption is higher.

It is essential to differentiate between whole soy foods and soy supplements. Whole soy foods, such as edamame, tofu, and soy milk, are generally considered safe in moderation. On the other hand, concentrated soy supplements or extracts may contain higher levels of phytoestrogens and should be approached with caution.
Regarding the specific product you mentioned, "田中寶," which is derived from soy, it is crucial to consult with your mother's oncologist or a registered dietitian who specializes in oncology nutrition. They can provide personalized advice based on her medical history, current treatment plan, and overall dietary needs. It is important to ensure that any supplement does not interfere with her chemotherapy or overall health.

In summary, while there are concerns about soy products due to their phytoestrogen content, moderate consumption of whole soy foods is generally considered safe for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. However, each patient's situation is unique, and it is vital to have open discussions with healthcare providers about dietary choices during treatment. This collaborative approach will help ensure that your mother receives the best possible care while managing her nutrition during this challenging time.

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