Should I take supplements for stage 4 breast cancer?

Age 46, de novo mbc to spine, pelvis and liver. also interested in more info on this. You read that sugar feeds cancer and to eat alkaline diets but I've had 2 different oncs so far that both say that cancer requires no specific dietary restrictions, other than to eat a balanced diet🤷🏼‍♀️🤦🏼‍♀️ I want to do whatever will help.

I had a reoccurrence after 4 years in my sacrum. Radiation to sacrum for 2 weeks. Placed on Lestrozole 2.5 mg, ibrance 125mg with infusions of zometa every 3 months for 2 1/2 years and currently in remission. 6 months ago was given a break from the ibrance. Have PET scans every 3 months to detect any tumors. When you hear stage IV it is like wow how did I get to this point. I do feel my body does better on the alkaline diet. There is a study I read in this app that talked about vitamin B12 and high doses of antioxidants for mbc patients the reoccurrence of cancer was increased by 87%. Even though it was a small study. It is huge to me. I also read that a really good fiber supplement was very beneficial.

I am seeing an integrative oncologist also in conjunction with my regular oncologist. She has given me a lot of vitamins. She said to take Calcium and vitamin D especially. I'm on Xgeva and lestrozole.

I starting seeing a functional doctor along with my oncologist. My oncologist doesn’t emphasize functional treatments but supports my decision to use them along with my treatment. It has helped with side effects and overall quality of life. I would highly suggest finding a board certified functional doctor if you’re interested in this. Unfortunately, most insurances don’t cover it but if you can afford it, well worth . I’m in North East Missouri and go to the University of Iowa Hospital, if your in this area I can recommend some doctors.

It depends on what treatments you are receiving. I'm on immunotherapy so no B vitamins or supplements to 'boost' immune system because it could interfere with the treatments. I have no dietary restrictions and tend to listen to what my body wants; I have a 'if you crave this your body needs this' list I found through Google searches.

I am sure it depends on your treatment protocol. I am currently on Verzenio and Letrozole with monthly Xgeva injections. I am taking Calcium, potassium.and Vit D. I have also had two iron infusions for anemia.

Good advice Theresa

Krista H, I’m interested in the supplements you’re taking! I’m on the same protocol you’re on, and I’ve stopped sugar and alcohol, and am interested in what mistletoe therapy is and what are the benefits for taking it? Thank you!

Joanna, my oncologist has me taking Vit D, calcium, and folate, plus I have a B-12 monthly. I get Xgeva every 3 months. I have MBC with extensive bone mets. I've been on chemo since Jan 2016. Drink lots of water.

My team told me what vitamins will help. To use a good multivitamin. I use an all natural based one from Amazon. It needs to have D3 with K2...helps your vitamins absorb better. I have it in my bones, liver and lungs. My calcium level is normal so he stopped that. The multivitamin has A, E, C, and magnesium at bedtime (helps with sleep) plus others. Never hurts to take good supplements.

I have bone, liver and lung mets, recently diagnosed after 11 years on letrozole and mushroom supplements (turkey tail, maitake) that stimulate immune system. I cut out sugar, eat all organic foods as much as possible, little red meat. Sleep in very dark room to help immune system. Since Stage IV was diagnosed 3 months ago I seem to crave lots of fresh fruit as well. I am listening to my body. Am doing radiation to hip since I had to have CA diseased femur replaced, then will be on Fulvestra and Kisqali. Letrozole didn't seem to work for my CA. I agree that lots of water is important, and alkaline diet. Apple cider vinegar in salad dressing is good. cruciferous veggies are good. ps I have a guy friend who went completely vegan when he was diagnosed with stage IV prostate ca 8 yrs ago. he is on hormone therapy shots as needed, still lives an active 70 yr old life.

If you are on aromatase inhibitors you should be taking D3 and calcium. Ask your oncologist.

Supplement questions come up often, and it makes sense to want to explore all options for supporting health during treatment. The best approach is having an open conversation with the oncology team about specific supplements, as they can interact with treatments in ways that aren't always obvious. Many find it helpful to ask their doctor or pharmacist about particular supplements they're considering, since the medical team has the full picture of current treatments and can provide personalized guidance.