Any long-term success stories from those NOT taking hormone therapy?

Posted by lj22 @lj22, 2 days ago

Hello all, I'm fairly new to this forum. Have previously described my case, early 60's, Stage 1, HR +, Her2-, lumpectomy and now radiation. Soon, I'll need to make a decision about whether to take hormone therapy. I've ruled out Tamoxifen, and if AI (Anastrozole), I would need Zometa due to osteopenia. I am otherwise healthy and take no other daily meds. I am also looking into natural AI's in foods and supplements. (Have reviewed Predict model, showing relatively high survival rates, but unclear on recurrence rates from his model.)

Anyone in a similar situation who has decided not to take AIs, and is doing well long term? Would like to hear your experiences. Many thanks. LJ

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Breast Cancer Support Group.

Only been two years but the doctors say it effects more long term 5 to 15 years increase recurrance if I don’t take anti-estrogen. Scary - but I know I can’t take them. Some have no issues but my choice.

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@salamander

Let me know what natural AI’s?

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Hello, I'm not able to attach a link here, but below is a summary from online info regarding natural AI foods.

For women with breast cancer, certain foods and supplements like grape seed extract, flaxseed meal, green tea, and white button mushrooms have shown potential as natural aromatase inhibitors, helping to reduce estrogen levels, but more research is needed to confirm their efficacy and safety. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Here's a more detailed look at some of these natural compounds and their potential benefits:
Foods and Supplements with Aromatase Inhibiting Properties: [3, 4, 6]

• Grape Seed Extract: Studies suggest that grape seed extract can inhibit aromatase activity and reduce tumor growth in breast cancer cell models. [4, 4, 6, 6]
• Flaxseed Meal: Flaxseed contains compounds that can inhibit aromatase activity. [3, 3]
• Green Tea: Green tea contains compounds like catechins that may help reduce estrogen levels. [1, 1]
• White Button Mushrooms: Phytochemicals in white button mushrooms have been shown to inhibit aromatase activity and breast cancer cell proliferation. [3, 3, 5, 5, 7]
• Resveratrol: Found in red wine and grapes, resveratrol is a natural compound that may inhibit aromatase activity and lower estrogen levels. [1, 1, 8, 8]
• Curcumin: A compound found in turmeric, curcumin has shown potential as an aromatase inhibitor. [1, 1]
• Flavonoids: Various flavonoids, including those found in citrus fruits and certain vegetables, have been investigated for their potential to inhibit aromatase activity. [1, 1, 9, 9, 10, 10]

Important Considerations: [1, 1]

• Limited Clinical Evidence: While research suggests that these natural compounds may have aromatase-inhibiting properties, more clinical trials are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in breast cancer treatment. [1, 1]
• Consult with Healthcare Professionals: Before using any natural remedies or supplements, it's crucial to consult with your doctor or oncologist to ensure they are safe and won't interfere with your breast cancer treatment plan. [1, 1, 11, 12]
• Not a Replacement for Conventional Treatment: Natural remedies should not be used as a replacement for conventional breast cancer treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. [13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20]
• Focus on a Healthy Lifestyle: In addition to considering natural aromatase inhibitors, a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management, can play an important role in breast cancer prevention and management. [21, 21, 22, 23]

Generative AI is experimental.

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I was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma in Jan 2024. I did 5 months of chemo, then lumpectomy and lymph nodes removed. Then Mastectomy as there was residual cancer in my breast area and lymph nodes. I did 33 radiation sessions. My latest visit with my oncologist netted me the option of taking AI's or not. I did the research and then made my decision. I opted to NOT do any AI drugs due to the side effects. I am 75, 3 years since recovering from Polymyalgia Rheumatica. I also have osteoporosis. The side effects of joint pain and bone loss are not acceptable. Lowering my estrogen production naturally seemed like a good idea.
So I have been on a mission to try to stop any cancer recurrence by eating healthy. I have discovered all of the above foods that help fight cancer. Broccoli and button mushrooms are my daily friends! I have discovered mushroom coffee which to me adds just another way to get the mushroom fighting affect into my body.
I also discovered 'intermittent fasting' as a great way to fight cancer's return. I learned this from folks in my local cancer support group. In a nutshell, once you stop eating and have digested your food, the good cells in your body go to sleep as they have nothing to eat. The bad (cancer) cells die because they have nothing to eat. This is the layman's definition but it's easy for me to understand!
I found that if I stop eating after dinner and wait to eat until about noon the next day, I have fasted for 12-14 hours. (Definitely drink water during your fasting time). That should help to kill cancer cells that may be lingering somewhere in my body.
I will always be on the lookout for foods that will kill cancer and appreciate the information above!

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