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Is there a supplement that really works?
Osteoporosis & Bone Health | Last Active: Nov 17 3:48pm | Replies (24)Comment receiving replies
@windyshores Since you're so knowledgeable on these topics, if I can ask... I see the OsteoNaturals supplements (like many of the bone building supplements) includes boron. However boron is listed on many reputable sites saying it may act like or promote estrogen. Then again a few studies mention boron as good for preventing breast cancer. Since I'm on an AI, I'm concerned if it will counter the AI. I've asked my doctors about this but none seem to have a good answer. Have you found anything on this issue in your research?
Replies to "@windyshores Since you're so knowledgeable on these topics, if I can ask... I see the OsteoNaturals..."
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@lilacs777 all I can do is google as you have! This is certainly contradictory:
"Boron supplements or high dietary intake of boron may be harmful to people with hormone-sensitive conditions, including breast cancer, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH)12. Boron is effective at reducing certain inflammatory markers called cytokines, which have been associated with breast cancer3. Borax, a compound containing boron, shows anti-cancer properties during the treatment of breast cancer by inhibiting DNA replication and blocking the release of estrogen from hormone-producing tissue."
Like you I read all kinds of studies and continue to find contradictions. Boron helps breast cancer (anti-cytokine action?) but enhances the effects of estrogen/improves action of estrogen receptors. I have no idea what to make of this.
The AI's are pretty powerful in reducing estrogen below detectable levels. I remember being concerned about soy when that was written about as another possible source of estrogen or estrogen-like action, and then it was reversed in studies!
All I can say is that I take supplements one at a time- no combinations. If you are looking at Osteonaturals, I would think Dr. McCormick could answer this question for you, or if he doesn't know, he needs to find out and would want to since he has patients- like you and me- who have or had breast cancer.
ps my general impression, made quickly, is that boron may enhance receptors but if the AI reduces estrogen dramatically (from the adrenals) then there is little to no estrogen going to the receptors. This is way beyond me and I am only speculating as an extreme amateur! Ask McCormick!! Or your oncologist! Important question since so many on AI's are concerned about bones. Helpful question!