Anti-Estrogenic Foods

Did you know that 80% of all breast cancers are estrogen-positive (i.e., driven by the hormone estrogen)?

Hormone therapy is commonly prescribed to breast cancer patients to lower estrogen levels in the body in order to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. The drug Tamoxifen is one example of an anti-estrogen drug. It works by inhibiting the aromatase enzyme that produces estrogen and by blocking estrogen from binding to estrogen receptors in breast tissue.

Did you know that there are FOODS that are also anti-estrogens?

Whether you want to help prevent estrogen-driven breast cancer (as we all should!), have had estrogen-positive (ER-positive) breast cancer in the past, or are currently undergoing breast cancer treatment, be sure to eat these anti-estrogenic foods every day (if possible).

Including these in your daily diet may not only help reduce your risk of ER-positive breast cancer from occurring in the first place, but also reduce the risk of disease recurrence after cancer treatment while optimizing your overall health. If you are taking medication such as Tamoxifen, these foods can strengthen their effectiveness in suppressing breast cancer cell growth.

1. Flaxseed– Contains phytoestrogens called lignans that dock into estrogen receptor sites and block the dangerous form of estrogen from binding. Aim for 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed a day.

2. Soy- Contains phytoestrogens called isoflavones that block the body’s more biologically active estrogen from binding to estrogen receptors and shut down the aromatase enzyme in fat cells. Aim for 1-2 half-cup servings of whole soy foods each day (tempeh, tofu, edamame, soybeans, soy milk, miso paste, tamari). Choose organic or non-GMO.

3. Mushrooms– White button mushrooms can suppress aromatase activity, reducing estrogen production. Aim for a daily serving about the size of your thumb (be sure to cook them).

4. Cruciferous vegetables- Contain phytochemicals that have antiestrogen activities. Aim for 2 cup servings a day. Think broccoli, broccoli sprouts, horseradish, arugula, kale, watercress, mustard seed powder, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, etc.

5. Citrus fruits- Contain phytochemicals (one is 2-Hydroxyflavanone) that downregulate estrogen receptors. Includes oranges, lemons, limes, pomelos, and grapefruit.

6. Fibre- Binds to excess estrogen in the colon to reduce circulating estrogen levels in the body. Found in all plant foods (veggies, fruit, whole grains, legumes). Aim for 40 grams per day.

To make consuming these foods in your daily diet as easy as possible, make my Ultimate Cancer-fighting Smoothie! It includes at least one food from each of the six categories listed above.

      Recipe link here:  The Ultimate Cancer-Fighting Smoothie

Your biggest cheerleader in health,

Hanna