The myth that soy increases breast cancer risk comes from the discovery that soy contains. You may have heard that you shouldnt eat soy if you are at risk for breast cancer. Scientists Untangle the Soy-Breast Cancer Paradox. Change the lives of cancer patients by giving your time and talent. This means researchers collect diet information from women, then follow them for many years to see who gets breast cancer. 2011;125:315-23. Pros of soy milk It's a good source of potassium and can be . Soy protein isolate is not recommended for breast cancer Soy protein isolate is produced by removing most of the fats and carbohydrates from defatted soy flour (which is made by grinding soybeans into a powder). In fact, there is growing evidence that eating traditional soy foods such as tofu, tempeh, edamame, miso, and soymilk may lower the risk of breast cancer, especially among Asian women. Many patients worry, however, that eating soy might be harmful if they have estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer. Why was there a concern about the relationship between consuming soy and developing breast cancer? This protective effect is less dramatic for women who eat less soy or who start eating soy later in life. No one food, soy included, is capable of single-handedly disrupting hormones linked to cancer growth. Become a volunteer, make a tax-deductible donation, or participate in a fundraising event to help us save lives. A study of nearly 3,000 breast cancer patients and 5,000 women without the disease suggested that higher consumption of these seeds, as well as soybeans, reduced the risk of breast cancer after menopause. Still, Id recommend that breast cancer patients avoid soy supplements, Millstine says. These traditional soy foods have been used in many cultures as reliable sources of protein for thousands of years. So far, the evidence does not point to any dangers from eating soy in people, and the health benefits appear to outweigh any potential risk. A moderate amount is one to two servings a day of whole-soy foods, such as tofu, soy milk and edamame. Can eating too much soy cause breast cancer, Can eating too much chicken cause breast cancer, Can eating sugar really change stage 4 breast cancer, Can eating pepitas kill breast cancer cells, Can eating greek yogurt kill breast cancer cells, Can eating dairy have an effecton breast cancer. Studies in breast cancer patients are mixed. One nutritional issue of interest is the impact of soya products (which contain phytoestrogens) on breast cancer recurrence rates. Those results led researchers to question whether soy might have similar effects on humans. This topic is under study. Japanese women typically consume soy beginning in childhood, which may be a key to prevention of breast cancer. Zhang, M. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, December 2009. Milk is an excellent source of calcium, providing 30% of the recommended daily intake. Gynecomastia: In a 60-year-old man following 6 months of soy milk consumption . Most health experts agree that the evidence is not strong enough to recommend that all women with a history of breast cancer eat more soy. Researchers aren't certain how large amounts of soy affect breast cancer risk. Any one of these other things could be the reason why soy-eating women have lower breast cancer risk. However, eating a moderate amount of soy foods does not increase risk of breast cancer or other types of cancer. Your gift will help make a tremendous difference. 5 foods high in estrogenRed wine. Our patients depend on blood and platelet donations. When it comes to eating soy foods, there are a lot of myths about whats safe for cancer survivors and patients in cancer treatment. The effect of soy protein supplements and soy-derived protein powders on cancer growth is less clearly understood. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. soy milk is a good way to get needed protein and . Soy contains estrogen-like chemicals called isoflavones. If you are ready to make an appointment, select a button on the right. All of the women answered questions about their diets, including how much soy they ate. Its in soy milk, meat substitutes, cereal, baked goods, energy bars, and more. Soy Milk Benefits For Women. Find out whos most at risk for breast cancer and why. Some experts worried that soy might interfere with breast cancer drugs that lower estrogen levels, such as tamoxifen. Several large, human studiesin which thousands of women have been followed for many yearsconsistently show that compared with women who do not eat soy, women who regularly eat soy have lower breast cancer risk. In one study of post-menopausal breast cancer survivors, those who consumed the most soy isoflavones, around 42.3 milligrams a day, had a decreased risk of recurrence of breast cancer compared . We can also help you find other free orlow-cost resources available. Processed meats. Request an appointment at MD Anderson online or by calling 1-877-632-6789. And in those societies, people still eat soy in its traditional forms. Soy Does Not Raise Estrogen or Lower Testosterone Levels in Men. In fact, there is growing evidence that eating traditional soy foods such as tofu, tempeh, edamame, miso, and soymilk may lower the risk of breast cancer, especially among Asian women. It could be that people who eat more soy have healthier lifestyles in general.. Other things could be involved. If you have questions about MD Andersons appointment process, our information page may be the best place to start. In fact, soy has been proven to block the action of estrogen in tissues. So youre much more likely to get a high dose if youre having protein shakes and soy hot dogs than if youre eating edamame.. Examples of soy foods include edamame (soybeans), tofu, soymilk, soybean sprouts, miso and tempeh (fermented soybeans). What foods to avoid if you have estrogen-positive breast cancer?Deep-fried foods.Margarine.Non-dairy creamers.Packaged cookies and crackers.Cake mixes.Pies.Pastries.Processed snacks. . Myth: Soy only affects breast cancers that are sensitive to estrogen. Soy is one of the only plant-based food sources of complete protein. This is where the term phytoestrogen originated. Knowing the real deal is important, especially now that soy is more common in the American diet. Choose from 12 allied health programs at School of Health Professions. "Studies have not shown any increased risk of breast cancer recurrence or death linked to soy consumption," Chen says. If youre drinking a lot of soy milk and eating processed foods that contain soy, this can increase your risk of developing nutritional deficiencies. In some animal studies, rodents that were exposed to high doses of compounds found in soy called isoflavones showed an increased risk of breast cancer. American Cancer Society news stories are copyrighted material and are not intended to be used as press releases. Breast Cancer. However, in humans, phytoestrogens turn into genistein and daidzein, two isoflavones that are very different from and much weaker than human estrogen. In some older animal studies, mice that ate soy had an increased number of breast cancer cells in their mammary glands. The growing body of evidence is indicating that consumption of soy and soy products is associated with reduced risk of breast cancer incidence, recurrence, and mortality. Caan BJ, Natarajan L, Parker B, Gold EB, Thomson C, Newman V, Rock CL, Pu M, Al-Delaimy W, Pierce JP. Leif Ellisen, MD, PhD, of the Gillette Center for Breast Cancer at the Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center in Boston, says women often ask him whether soy is safe after breast cancer. First, mice process the soy differently than humans do. Soy foods, such as edamame, tofu, and unsweetened soy milk, have been shown to lower the risk of certain cancers, such as breast cancer . When soy protein isolate is one of many ingredients, it often does not offer as much isoflavone content as a standard serving of less processed soy. Is there a concern about eating soy foods? Guha N, Kwan ML, Quesenberry CP Jr, Weltzien EK, Castillo AL, Caan BJ. There are a lot of health benefits in soy, but there has been some theoretical concern that soy has molecules that resemble estrogen which may increase risk . And a diet high in fiber may lower your risks for several cancers, including colorectal cancer. Soy food consumption and breast cancer prognosis. They may exercise more and maintain a healthier body weight. This is true for women with estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer and all others. In a review of 35 studies, soy isoflavone supplements raised estradiol (estrogen) levels in postmenopausal women by 14% ( 14 ). Soybeans contain all of the amino acids essential to human nutrition. On the other hand, questions about the potential estrogenic activity of soy can lead to confusion about the safety of eating soy foods, . Although it may help prevent breast cancer or recurrence , or reduce mortality , soy intake or supplementation did not modulate risk , decrease overall risk , or affect mammographic density . Theres no need to banish tofu and edamame from your diet. April 5, 2011 For years, breast cancer survivors were often counseled to avoid soy foods and supplements because of estrogen -like effects that might theoretically cause breast tumors to grow. Risk was similar for both full-fat and low-fat versions and pre-menopausal . Soy protein powder and isoflavone supplements were not found to have an effect on markers of breast cancer risk. While eating a moderate amount of soy is fine, its too soon to suggest eating more to protect your breasts. 2. More research still needs to be done, Meyers says. In some animal studies, rodents that were exposed to high doses of compounds found in soy called isoflavones showed an increased risk of breast cancer. Nonetheless, non-evidence based sources make claims about soy that can create unnecessary fear amongst cancer patients. The occasional soy protein bar or snack food is fine, but as with all plant foods, less processed is better. However, soy pills and isoflavone-enriched powders should be avoided. Research shows that a diet high in fried foods may significantly increase your risk of breast cancer. However, eating a moderate amount of soy foods does not increase risk of breast cancer or other types of cancer. Tofu, miso paste and other soybean-based foods are high-quality sources . As you might expect, the Chinese women ate far more of it than those in the U.S. It contains lower levels of avenanthramides than whole oat products. The bottom line is that soy foods like edamame, tofu and unsweetened soy milk can safely be included as an alternative protein or dairy source, even for those going through cancer treatment. Other data suggest . Phytoestrogens, specifically genistein and daidzein, are structurally different and significantly weaker than human estrogen. Find information and resources for current and returning patients. Our personalized portal helps you refer your patients and communicate with their MD Anderson care team. Each one has a different impact on your health, Siebel says. Some soy nutrientsthe isoflavoneshave chemical structures that look a bit like the estrogen found in a woman's body. They also didnt determine why milk might cause an increased risk. No studies exist with large numbers of dairy consumers and soy consumers to assess mutual confounding. There are three main types of foods that come from soy. After youve completed a full course of estrogen suppressors (usually 5 years, but some oncologists are recommending 10 years or more) you can start including soy in your diet again, in modest amounts. Several studies do raise a concern for dairy milk, specifically dairy calcium and protein. Processed meats like bacon and sausage may raise your risk of breast cancer. These studies have been conducted in both Asian and US populations. study published in the October 2004 issue of "The New England Journal of Medicine," there is a link between height and breast cancer. You can help reduce your risk of cancer by making healthy choices like eating right, staying activeand not smoking. Findings from some case-control studies have suggested soy products may be linked to a lower risk of breast cancer. Should you avoid these foods or eat more of them? Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. Studies show that a lifelong diet rich in soy foods reduces the risk of breast cancer in women. Dietary intakes were estimated from food frequency . This is important because soy has long been a part of many Asian cuisines, but it is a relatively new introduction to the American diet. That may influence the way their body processes soy, she says. The link was clearest with milk calorie intake, with a 50 percent increased risk of women among the top 10 percent of milk drinkers compared to those among the bottom 10 percent. Consistent findings from population studies indicate no increased risk for breast cancer survivors who consume soyfoods. This similarity to estrogen is why people mistakenly believe eating soy is related to breast cancer risk. STORY: Cline Dion announces rare neurological disorder diagnosis; cancels start of European tour. Because the names sound similar, Siebel says there has been hesitation around eating phytoestrogen, especially among patients with breast cancer and other types of cancer that are hormone-sensitive. Lets take a closer look at the scientific research to date. The results still held when the researchers considered that fact. While soy may help relieve your hot flashes, researchers caution postmenopausal women against having too high a dose of soy, particularly in the form of supplements that contain high amounts of soy isoflavones. Thats why I try to eat soy every day, says Siebel, who carries the BRCA gene. Myth: All types of soy have the same effect on the body. The study at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre in New York examined women already diagnosed and being treated for . These genes are responsible for DNA repair. "Soy isn't bad for you, and it may actually be beneficial for cancer prevention," Siebel says. Soy contains compounds called phytoestrogens. Nonetheless, non-evidence based sources make claims about soy that can create unnecessary fear amongst cancer patients. Kang X, Zhang Q, Wang S, Huang X, Jin S. Effect of soy isoflavones on breast cancer recurrence and death for patients receiving adjuvant endocrine therapy. Soy isnt bad for you, and it may actually be beneficial for cancer prevention, Siebel says. Researchers arent certain how large amounts of soy affect breast cancer risk. But rodents process soy differently from people, and the same results have not been seen in people. The results are promising, but theres still not enough information, Meyers says. In the end, feel confident in whatever choice you make about soy foods. Whether you want to learn about treatment options, get advice on coping with side effects, or have questions about health insurance, were here to help. . As you might expect, the Chinese women ate far more of it than those in the U.S. These include green tea, vegetables such as onions and broccoli, and fruits such as apples and citrus fruits. It's rare, but men can get breast cancer too. Cancer.org is provided courtesy of the Leo and Gloria Rosen family. For many breast cancer patients, treatment involves blocking estrogen to prevent cancer cells from forming. Your body may process the natural soy in tofu, miso, and soy milk differently than the kind thats added to processed foods. Soy foods are excellent sources of protein, especially when they replace other, less healthy foods such as animal fats and red or processed meats. In fact, research in patients with breast cancer patients suggests possible benefit to overall survival with consuming moderate amounts of soy foods, or 1-2 servings per day. Indeed, in a study in 620 Iranian women, fried food intake was the largest risk factor for breast cancer development ( 41 ). All rights reserved. However, based on limited evidence, it is found that a very high intake of milk and dairy products may increase the risk of prostate cancer in men. Soy is often used as a food additive (soy lecithin, soy oil) and can be found in processed food, such as salad dressing and baked goods. Cancer Information, Answers, and Hope. Meyers notes that many of the hallmark studies are done in Asian countries, where people grow up eating soy in its traditional forms. What are soy foods? The current scientific consensus is that soy does not increase a persons risk of developing breast cancer. Thats what gave researchers cause for concern about soy and breast cancer. Soy foods are a healthy option, while soy dietary supplements may not be. Soy foods may reduce your risk of cancer Research suggests eating soy foods may reduce risk of cancer recurrence - even in patients with estrogen receptor-positive cancer. There are still some open questions about these findings because the studies were looking at many different types of soy, and because women who regularly eat soy simply tend to be healthier than those who don't. 9 Depending on your other dietary needs, Siebel says two servings of soy foods a day can be part of a healthy diet. 2010;182:1857-62. As part of a healthy diet, whole soy foods are safe, says Denise Millstine, MD, director of integrative medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, AZ. But they did say that soy should be eaten in moderation. We need to look at if having soy later in life has the same effect.. In this study, Dr. Iwasaki and his team recruited 24,226 Japanese women aged 40 to 69. The recent study (2020) suggests drinking dairy milk increases the risk of breast cancer. A new study suggests that drinking dairy milk daily, even in small amounts, can increase your risk of getting breast cancer as much as 80 percent. A moderate amount is one to two servings a day of whole-soy foods, such as tofu, soy milk and edamame. However, soy foods do appear to be safe, and possibly beneficial for female breast cancer survivors. They point toward a protective effect of soy on breast health, regardless of other lifestyle and diet choices. Soy foods are made from soybeansa crop that, until the 1980s, has been used in America primarily as livestock feed, but has been a part of the Asian diet for many generations. This website uses cookies. . Until we do, well be funding and conducting research, sharing expert information, supporting patients, and spreading the word about prevention. Its also a more concentrated form of soy, Millstine says. April 5, 2011 For years, breast cancer survivors were often counseled to avoid soy foods and supplements because of estrogen -like effects that might theoretically cause breast tumors to grow. They caution, however, that more research needs to be done to see whether taking isoflavone supplements is equally safe, since these supplements may have higher concentrations of isoflavones than there are in soy foods. Experts recommend sticking with a moderate amount, or about one to two servings, of whole soy a day. 2 Aid in DNA repair. There's some debate over whether oat milk is good for cancer patients. However, soy is not currently recommended as a way for breast cancer survivors to lower the risk of recurrence. To understand how, a little background is necessary. 2005-2022 WebMD LLC. These bacteria boost the health of our microbiome, which can improve our heart health, brain health, and regulate weight. This may be especially true for patients who carry a BRCA mutation. This means observational studies can't conclusively prove that soy protects against breast cancer. Copyright 2022 eatright.org. Is Soy Milk Good For Cancer Patients. Myth: Eating soya-based foods can increase the chance of breast cancer recurrence. It was spread on blogs, and people would tell each other to avoid soy.. However, extensive clinical and epidemiologic data show these concerns to be . Wu, A. British Journal of Cancer, January 2008. Some of the misunderstandings come from the fact that studies in people and studies in animals may show different results. 2009;118:395-405. See additional information. Women in the study who reported eating higher amounts of soy products experienced a lower risk of breast cancer. UCSF Medical Center: A Guide to Foods Rich in Soy.. Soybeans are a good source of protein and contain a variety of nutrients that are essential for good health. Soy Confusion Confusion about soy arises from the term "phytoestrogens." Some soy nutrientsthe isoflavoneshave chemical structures that look a bit like the estrogen found in a woman's body. After. According to Marji McCullough, ScD, RD, strategic director of nutritional epidemiology for the American Cancer Society, soy foods are healthy and safe. Emerging research suggests that soy foods may decrease the likelihood of breast cancer recurrence in women with a history of the disease. Those who said they ate the most soy were 25% less likely to have their cancer return compared to those who had the least. However, soy foods do appear to be safe, and possibly beneficial for female breast cancer survivors. Your gift will help support our mission to end cancer and make a difference in the lives of our patients. The bottom line, Siebel says, is to have good communication with your care team for any questions you may have about your diet and cancer risk. Soy isoflavones consumption and risk of breast cancer incidence or recurrence: a meta-analysis of prospective studies. At the American Cancer Society, were on a mission to free the world from cancer. Soy. Soy foods contain isoflavones (phytoestrogens). Examples of serving sizes for soy foods are cup of edamame , 1 cup of soy milk or cup of tofu. Experts now believe that soy isoflavones may actually block estrogen from attaching to breast cancer cells instead of spurring growth like once thought. CMAJ. New Study Suggests Soy Will Not Increase Risk of Return of Breast Cancer. Summary: The current consensus among health experts who study soy is that breast cancer survivors can safely eat these foods. The current scientific consensus is that soy does not increase a person's risk of developing breast cancer. The American Cancer Society is a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. A similar association was also observed in Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. In April of 2008, a Japanese study was published on soy consumption and rates of breast cancer. The American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team. The results still held when the researchers considered that fact. United States Department of Agriculture: USDA Database for the Isoflavone Content of Selected Foods.. Shike, M. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, September 2014. Is soy bad for breast cancer patients It was once thought that soy foods increase the risk of breast cancer. Find out more about the different types of biopsies, why they're done, and what you can expect if you need one. It can be labeled as a good source if it contains 10-19% of the recommended daily intake. Lets take a closer look at the scientific research to date. However, some types of soy milk could actually be beneficial for the prevention of these common types of cancer. It was once thought that soy foods increase the risk of breast cancer. For those who do include soy in their diet, additional questions about genetic modification (GMO) and conventional versus organic options sometimes arise. Soy contains protein, isoflavones and fiber, all of which provide health benefits. Just as eating a moderate amount of whole soy doesn't make you more likely to get breast cancer, it also doesn't seem to. Some studies have suggested a link between soy or isoflavone supplements and an increased risk of breast cancer in women who have a family or personal history of breast cancer or thyroid problems. These plant-based chemicals are similar in structure to estrogen. The soy foods that the study included were tofu, soy milk, and fresh soybeans. While its true that soy isoflavones play a bigger role in estrogen-receptor positive breast cancers, early research links it to a lower risk of other types of breast cancer. Misconceptions concerning soyfoods stem from the fact that soy is a uniquely rich source of isoflavones, which are naturally occurring plant chemicals classified as phytoestrogens. In one early study, soy supplements were shown to switch on genes that encourage cancer growth in women with early-stage breast cancer. However, findings from large prospective cohort studies have been mixed. 5. The soy protein isolate found in supplements, protein powders, and meat substitutes is usually stripped of nutrients, such as fiber. Cooking methods, however, may also deplete isoflavone content by up to 80-90%. Experts recommend sticking with a moderate amount, or about one to two servings, of whole soy a day. If you're a woman concerned about breast health and you like soy, stick to healthy, whole soy foods, such as tofu, tempeh, soymilk, and edamame. However, some cancer patients may find that soy milk is a beneficial part of their diet. This is where the term phytoestrogen originated. 2011;20:854-58. Dong JY, Qin LQ. Experts at the American Cancer Society say soy foods are safe and healthy for people to eat. So whats the truth? New research finds eating soy milk, edamame and tofu does not have harmful effects for women with breast cancer, as some have worried. Please consult with your provider before using any type of supplement, as they may interfere with your medications. Denise Millstine, MD, director of integrative medicine, Mayo Clinic; consultant, womens health, Mayo Clinic Breast Clinic. We also share information with our analytics and website partners, who may use it to inform decisions about current or future services. A breast milk donation program is at full, operational capacity at Naval Hospital Jacksonville, according to chief nurse officer Capt. Newspaper coverage this week focused on whether soy could cause breast cancer to spread and the report by New York researchers found that high levels of soy protein genistein (found in soy milk and tofu) could accelerate the progression of breast cancer cells.. Soy Foods Are More Than Just Tofu and Soy Sauce. Along with its traditional forms of edamame, tofu, tempeh, and miso, soy is also a popular low-fat source of protein. For reprint requests, please see our ContentUsage Policy. Some people may even tell you that soy increases your risk of cancers and is especially dangerous for breast cancer survivors. Soy in natural food form such as tofu, edamame and soy milk is safe for consumption, even for people with a cancer diagnosis. Soy is one of the only plant-based food sources of complete protein. Is it dangerous? Here you'll find in-depth information on specific cancer types including risk factors, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment options. In one early study, soy supplements were shown to switch on genes that encourage cancer growth in women with early-stage breast cancer. But the same study showed that soy also protected against recurrence in patients who took tamoxifen. There is no definitive answer to this question as each person's situation is unique. However, eating a moderate amount of soy foods does not increase risk of breast cancer or other types of cancer. Pills with isolated soy isoflavones may cause troublenot enough research has been done yet on people to determine whether or not high concentrations of those is oflavones may encourage the growth of breast cancer. The results are promising, but theres still not enough information, Meyers says. Similarly, in a multiethnic study that involved a number of groups, soy intake appeared protective in Latinos, too. That finding comes from a study of 756 Chinese women who had breast cancer and about 1,000 others who didnt have the disease. Soy foods are excellent sources of protein, especially when they replace other, less healthy foods such as animal fats and red or processed meats. Fact: Soy foods such as soy milk and tofu contain natural compounds called phytoestrogens. Those who said they ate more soy were less likely to have any type of breast cancer, compared to those who ate the least. The simplest answer is to think whole -- as in, as close to nature as possible -- so you dont get too much. Learn what the symptoms are and when to call your doctor. In fact, in human studies, the estrogen effects of soy seem to either have no effect at all, or to reduce breast cancer risk (especially in Asian countries, where lifelong intake is higher than the US). Soybeans have a protein content of approximately 40%, whereas soy protein isolate has a protein content of 90% or higher. As humans, our bodies have a different . Undeniably, soy is a crop that undergoes genetic modification in U.S. agriculture. Soy protein powder (soy protein isolate) and isoflavone supplements were not found to have an effect on markers of breast cancer risk. Myth: Eat soy to protect against breast cancer. Myth: If you have or had breast cancer, avoid all soy foods. They are truly GOOD for you! Below are some of the resources we provide. It is important to realize that when people eat soy it does not turn into estrogen in the body. Is soy safe for patients with breast cancer. 1 Induce apoptosis (death of unhealthy cells). Hilakivi-Clarke, L. Journal of Nutrition, December 2010. It was once thought that soy foods increase the risk of breast cancer. But first, talk with your oncologist. These traditional soy foods have been used in many cultures as reliable sources of protein for thousands of years. The bottom line is that soy foods like edamame, tofu and unsweetened soy milk can safely be included as an alternative protein or dairy source, even for those going through cancer treatment. This plant protein is also considered a healthy choice for . Log in to our secure, personalized website to manage your care (formerly myMDAnderson). A serving could be half a cup of edamame, or an eight-ounce cup of soy milk, she says. In tissues with breast cancer cells, estrogen stimulates the multiplication of cancer cells. Most breast cancers are sensitive to estrogen (or, as doctors say, estrogen-receptor-positive or ER-positive,) which means that estrogen fuels their growth. Fermented soy foods like miso, natto, and tempeh are cultured with beneficial bacteria. A product can be labeled as an excellent source of a nutrient if it contains 20% or more of the recommended daily intake for that nutrient. For more clarity, get the truth behind these five common myths. 2022 American Cancer Society, Inc. All rights reserved. Stay tuned to see if that proves to be helpful across the board, whether you eat tofu regularly, pour soy milk on your breakfast cereal, or snack on edamame. Carl Goforth. Apparently, milk during childhood can contribute to a greater height but it may . The soy isoflavone genistein may counteract estrogen suppressorsand that would make your post-treatment medication less effective. Along with its traditional forms of edamame, tofu, tempeh, and miso, soy is also a popular low-fat source of protein. Soy contains protein, isoflavones and fiber, all of which provide health benefits. 5 And if youve had estrogen-sensitive breast cancer, and are taking a selective estrogen receptor modulator, such as tamoxifen, or an aromatase inhibitors, such as exemestane, its a good idea to refrain from soy. In an observational study, it is always possible that the true connection with better breast health is not soy, but something else that is related to eating soy. If soy's estrogen-blocking action occurs in the breast, then eating soy could, in theory, reduce the risk of breast cancer because estrogen stimulates the growth and multiplication of breast and breast cancer cells. Theres no reason to avoid eating soy.. When soy protein isolate is one of many ingredients, it often does not offer as much isoflavone content as a standard serving of less processed soy. You can also find soy in tofu, soy milk, soy sauce, miso, tempeh, and other foods. May reduce menopause symptoms Studies suggest soys beneficial role in menopause. However, eating a moderate amount of soy foods . Its thought that isoflavones found in soy may restore tumor suppression in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. What does it take to outsmart cancer? Available Every Minute of Every Day. Soya. There is growing evidence that eating traditional soy foods such as tofu may lower the risk of cancers of the breast, prostate, or endometrium (lining of the uterus), and there is some evidence it may lower the risk of certain other cancers. This is thought to be because the isoflavones in soy can act like estrogen in the body, and increased estrogen has been linked to certain types of breast cancer. Myth: If you have or had breast cancer, avoid all soy foods. Researchers arent certain how large amounts of soy affect breast cancer risk. Even for health-savvy people, telling fact from fiction can be tricky. Lee, S. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, June 2009. 4. 2 . Soy foods do not contain estrogen. More recently, processed soy protein has been added to a variety of foods, such as frozen meals, soups, protein powder drinks, and snack bars. But theres no reason to avoid eating soy.. They didnt find the same risk factors with cheese or yogurt. Just as eating a moderate amount of whole soy doesnt make you more likely to get breast cancer, it also doesnt seem to raise your risk for recurrence. On one hand, consuming soy foods like edamame, tofu and unsweetened soy milk have been shown to reduce the risk of certain cancers such as breast cancer, prostate cancer and gastric cancer. Weve invested more than $5 billion in cancer research since 1946, all to find more and better treatments, uncover factors that may cause cancer, and improve cancer patients quality of life. However, phytoestrogens are not the same thing as female estrogens. This might be because the isoflavones can actually block the more potent natural estrogens in the blood. 1 min read. Learn about our graduate medical education residency and fellowship opportunities. The research on soy and breast health has looked at soy foods, not dietary supplements. American Institute for Cancer Research: AICRs Foods That Fight Cancer., University of Idaho Extension: Whats On Your Plate Today?. Nechuta, S. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, July 2012. Lets compare: Supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and should be used with caution. Work with your dietitian and care team to make the best decisions for you, Siebel says. Prostate cells carry beta type estrogen receptors, which appear to act as a . Phytoestrogens don't always mimic estrogen. The findings from a team of researchers at. Therefore, soy has an important role to play in a syndrome in large part affected by these issues. This type of powder is typically used to make a smoothie or shake but can also be the source of protein in nutrition bars, certain pre-packaged frozen veggie burgers and vegetarian/vegan meat alternatives. 7 Women in the Japanese study who had the lowest rates of breast cancer had consumed soy from childhood, or at least from pre-puberty. The Lyda Hill Cancer Prevention Center provides cancer risk assessment, screening and diagnostic services. We couldnt do what we do without our volunteers and donors. No one food, soy included, is capable of single-handedly disrupting hormones linked to cancer growth. Phytoestrogens, such as those in soy, have similar features to human estrogen. In fact, limited evidence shows the potential for greater overall survival and perhaps decreased recurrence, among women a year or more after diagnosis who include moderate amounts of soy. If you require extra calories during cancer treatment from a medical food supplement, the soy protein in this type of product is not a problem. It was once thought that soy foods increase the risk of breast cancer. More research also needs to be done on how much soy you get at different ages. Instead evidence suggests that pre and post menopausal women with breast cancer can safely consume one or two servings of soya foods daily (one serving being the same as one glass of soya milk). So, breast cancer patients and survivors, please enjoy soy beans, tofu, edamame, tempeh, soy milk, etc., every day. In some tissues and in some people, they may block the action of estrogen. Still, Id recommend that breast cancer patients avoid soy supplements, Millstine says. The Mother Infant Unit is purchasing breast milk from . Tax ID Number: 13-1788491. In one report, researchers analyzed data from diet surveys completed by more than 9,500 American and Chinese women. The original question and answer were generously donated by Diana Dyer, MS, RD a cancer survivor, registered dietitian, organic garlic farmer, and the author of "A Dietitian's Cancer Story: Information & Inspiration for Recovery & Healing from a 3-time Cancer Survivor. This is thought to be because the isoflavones in soy can act like estrogen in the body, and increased estrogen has been linked to certain types of breast cancer. One serving includes: While eating a moderate amount of soy is fine, its too soon to suggest eating more to protect your breasts. 1 Soy isoflavones can act like weak estrogens and may block estrogen receptors, similar to the way that tamoxifen works to prevent a recurrence of estrogen-sensitive breast cancer. In addition, other forms of soy, such as tofu and edamame, are part of the traditional Chinese diet. The soy protein isolate found in supplements, protein powders, and meat substitutes is usually stripped of nutrients, such as fiber. These studies are observational. Frequent consumption of soy milk was associated with a whopping 70 percent reduction of the risk of prostate cancer, as you can see at 1:33 in my video. Marleen Meyers, MD, assistant professor of medicine, NYU School of Medicine; director of survivorship, Perlmutter Cancer Center Survivorship Program, NYU Langone Medical Center. Also, doses of isoflavones in the animal studies are much higher than in humans. You May Like: Is Breast Cancer Curable In The 3 Stage. That finding doesnt prove that soy prevented breast cancer in any of the women. Talk with your care team about your needs. Can you get cancer from soy milk? 1. Researchers noted that it may be necessary to consume the isoflavones for a year or longer to see the most benefit. Soy milk is a good source of protein and antioxidants, and it has been shown to have cancer-fighting properties. Because hormones like estrogen are fat-soluble, the level of hormones is higher in whole milk than in skim milk. In Asian cultures, where people eat a lot of soy from a young age, there are lower rates of breast cancer, Meyers says. In addition to the isoflavones which may act like estrogens in the body, soy has many anticancer properties, antioxidants, nutrients, micronutrients, or vitamins that may contribute to its beneficial effect on health, Shu says. Fruits (fresh and dry) Nuts. They are called phytoestrogens because they come from plants. All rights reserved. "In fact, higher amounts of soy were linked to a lower risk of breast cancer recurrence or death. Your body may process the natural soy in tofu, miso, and soy milk differently than the kind thats added to processed foods. Soy contains phytoestrogens, or plant-based estrogens, which has raised concerns regarding soy's role in the development of breast cancer; however, whole soy products, such as tofu, edamame or soy milk, have been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer, including ER-positive cancers. Advertisement The phytoestrogens in soybeans are thought to be responsible for their cancer-preventing effects. Research. However, these studies are reassuring in affirming that soy foods do not increase breast cancer risk. A 2020 research review found that soy isoflavones helped improve bone mineral density and prevent bone loss in people with osteoporosis. Despite the interest in the role of soy in reducing breast cancer risk concerns have arisen that soy foods, because they contain isoflavones, may increase the likelihood of high-risk women developing breast cancer and worsen the prognosis of breast cancer patients. Soy or isoflavone supplements, on the other hand, generally contain higher levels of isoflavones. A moderate amount is one to two servings a day of whole-soy foods, such as tofu, soy milk and edamame. Donate now to help end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Myth: All soy foods raise your risk for breast cancer. There is no consistent evidence to confirm the association between milk and dairy product consumption and the risk of breast cancer. Phytoestrogens are plant-based substances that act like estrogen in the body. Is soy safe for cancer patients? Affected people should opt for unflavored varieties of oat milk. Experts now believe that soy isoflavones may actually block estrogen from attaching to breast cancer cells instead of spurring growth like once thought. Eat these foods if you enjoy them, or skip them altogether if soy isn't to your liking. A 2020 meta-analysis evaluated the results of 18 separate studies. Though the estrogen-like properties of soy seem like they could increase the risk of breast cancer recurrence or mortality (death), current studies suggest that eating moderate amounts of soy foods is safe for breast cancer survivors. As a breast cancer survivor and senior clinical dietitian at MD Anderson, Christie Siebel is passionate about debunking misinformation so patients get the nutrients they need to stay healthy. According to the American Cancer Society, certain types of breast cancer have been traced to increased estrogen in the body. 2022 The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Breast Cancer Res Treat. For example, women who eat soy foods also may eat less fried food and more vegetables. When soy blocks this stronger form of estrogen, it is playing an active role in reducing the risk of breast cancer. The American Cancer Society says that concentrated extracts of soy isoflavones may encourage tumor growth, and should be avoided. Question and Answer updated by Suzanne Dixon, MPH, MS, RD on behalf of the ON DPG. As part of our mission to eliminate cancer, MD Anderson researchers conduct hundreds of clinical trials to test new treatments for both common and rare cancers. By clicking Agree below, you consent to use cookies if you continue to our website. Introduction: The potential link between soy and decreased breast cancer risk remains unclear. An array of high-tech detection techniques and devices is on the scientific horizon.