Should women with estrogen positive breast cancer avoid certain foods?

This is such a great question and so happy you asked. There is a great article from the American Institute of Cancer Research (AICR) by their Nutrition Advisor called “Soy and Cancer: Myths and Misconceptions (https://www.aicr.org/resources/blog/soy-and-cancer-myths-and-misconceptions/?gad=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw_aemBhBLEiwAT98FMoi2htPxO5dM7o4SFQ6jC-9JP1H1v1biOUZ0gR_4UCKHlkhLtVZoYRoCi3UQAvD_BwE). Some great takeaways from this article are: -Isoflavones are the natural plant compounds found in soy foods and although they have a similar chemical structure to human estrogen, they function differently. -“Consistent findings from several population studies demonstrate that there is no increased risk for breast cancer survivors who consume soy foods. In fact, limited evidence shows potential for greater overall survival, and perhaps decreased recurrence, among women (including those who had ER+ cancer) who include moderate amounts of soy.”

This is such an important question that many people with estrogen positive breast cancer wonder about. The relationship between foods containing phytoestrogens and breast cancer is complex, and research continues to evolve on this topic. These dietary concerns are definitely worth discussing with your oncology team, as they can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation and treatment plan. Many others in this community have navigated similar questions, so you're not alone in wondering about these dietary considerations during your cancer journey.