Breast cancer is the leading cause of death for women ages 34 to 54, notes the BBC website. This form of cancer is characterized by the formation of cancerous cells in the breast tissue, which eventually form a lump. The exact cause of breast cancer is unknown, but genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors may all contribute to the development of the disease. Breast cancer normally requires surgery to remove the cancerous lump. Hormone therapy or chemotherapy may also be employed if the cancer has spread beyond the breast. Some supplements may also help to alleviate symptoms and aid recovery but should never be used in place of conventional medical treatment. Always discuss any new treatment with your doctor.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The University of Maryland Medical Center website notes that omega-3 fatty acids may boost immunity and reduce inflammation. Research published in June 2005 in "Breast Cancer Research" also found that omega-3 fatty acids may prevent breast cancer cells from developing into a malignant tumor. Oily fish such as salmon, halibut, tuna and herring are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids. You can also obtain omega-3 fatty acids by taking a fish oil supplement. MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. Library of Medicine, notes that fish oil is safe for most people. However, it may cause loose stools, nausea and belching. Talk to your doctor before taking fish oil supplements.
Melatonin
Melatonin may reduce the risk of developing breast cancer, according to a study published in the June 2008 issue of the "Journal of the National Cancer Institute." Lead author Eva Schernhammer, assistant professor of epidemiology at Harvard School of Public Health, found that increased melatonin levels were associated with a statistically significant lower risk of invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Melatonin is a hormone made by the pineal gland in the brain but is also available as a supplement. Taking a melatonin supplement may cause side effects such as depression, sleepiness and a feeling of being hung over, notes FamilyDoctor.org. Discuss taking melatonin supplements with your doctor.
Calcium
Data presented at the American Association for Cancer Research Meeting in 2010 shows that calcium may reduce the risk of breast cancer by 40 percent. The study's lead author, Jaime Matta, notes that taking a calcium supplement may lower the risk of breast cancer by aiding DNA repair. The Office of Dietary Supplements notes that calcium supplements may cause such side effects as constipation and bloating. Calcium supplements may also interact with some medicines. Talk to your doctor before taking a calcium supplement to treat breast cancer.
References
- BBC: Health: Breast Cancer
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Breast Cancer
- "Breast Cancer Research"; Anticancer Properties of Propofol-Docosahexaenoate and Propofol-Eicosapentaenoate on Breast Cancer Cells; R.A. Siddiqui et al.; 2005
- MedlinePlus: Fish Oil
- "Journal of the National Cancer Institute"; Urinary 6-Sulfatoxymelatonin Levels and Risk of Breast Cancer in Postmenopausal Women; E.S. Schernhammer; 2008
- FamilyDoctor.org: Melatonin
