Breast cancer
There are hundreds of studies done worldwide on the side effects of drugs, natural products and the causes of cancer. One study done in Israel which began in 1987 and went on for 15 years was to see if there was a link with Tamoxifen and uterine cancer. The aim of this study was to identify the risk of developing uterine and endometrial cancer after Tamoxifen was used for treatment in other types of breast cancer.
Conflicting information on the internet says that treatment with Tamoxifen may increase the risk of certain uterine cancers, strokes, blood clots in the lungs etc which could be fatal. Tamoxifen is used to block the action of oestrogen and is used because certain types of breast cancer require oestrogen to grow.
A further study published in ‘Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention’ supports the idea that phytonutrients are essential for healthy breasts. It suggests that benefits of soy isoflavones may be useful for malignant tumours as well as benign breast cysts. Phytonutrients are plant products that assist in increasing the immune system so that your natural healing resources take over.
The study goes on to say that a diet rich in soy is associated with fewer cases of breast cancer and reiterates that China has the world’s lowest incidence and mortality rate in breast cancer of which over one million new cases are found yearly worldwide. The study was led by Johanna Lampe at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Centre in Seattle and goes on to say that the benefits of soy may even extend to protecting against breast discomfort and lumpy breasts.
By contrast there are other studies that conflict regarding soy products so it becomes difficult for the consumer to decide what they should eat regarding this area of their health. The study further showed an increase in plasma levels of isoflavones Genistein and Daidzein could be associated with a reduced risk of cyst conditions. It therefore becomes necessary for consumers to research the potential benefits of soy before making a decision and important that we become responsible for decisions about our own health. This study however sits comfortably with the body of belief that soy has cancer-protecting properties.
There are products on the market containing Glycitein and Genistein which are two isoflavones from soybean and protect the cellular structure of the body. The product is available in Australia. There are also other companies that produce good quality phytonutritionals to assist your immune system.
Regardless of whether you are fighting a disease or not a healthy immune system will protect you from a lot of unnecessary illness. As a general rule if you take a multivitamin, a good antioxidant, a phyto-nutritional and eat your vegetables, fruit and one serving of protein daily and combine that with a good digestive enzyme you should remain fairly healthy as well as build up your system to fight many diseases. It’s not just about a quick fix, it’s about a healthy lifestyle plan which will assist you to have enough energy to move unhampered physically towards your goals and dreams.
