Most Wanted Supplements:
Are They Cancer Killers or Frauds? What You Need to Know, con't.
Suspect: Turmeric
Charge: Turmeric, a curry spice, has
anti-inflammatory properties and contains
an antioxidant called curcumin. In
very early basic laboratory studies, curcumin
has been shown to stop the spread
of melanoma cells. However, researchers
do not know whether curcumin has any
anticancer effects in humans.
Verdict: A recent study showed
turmeric may interfere with chemotherapy
for breast cancer, so avoid
turmeric during chemo.
Turmeric supplements also
may worsen gallbladder
problems or slow blood
clotting. If you have finished
treatment and want to
learn how to use turmeric as a spice,
try our recipes featuring tumeric.
IMPORTANT
Never take a
supplement
without talking
to your doctor
first. They may
cause dangerous
interactions with
medications or
lessen the effectiveness
of cancer
treatment.
Suspect: Vitamin D
Charge: Vitamin D to reduced cancer risk.
Vitamin D helps control cell growth and holds promise for cancer prevention.
Verdict: Research hasn't determined
what dose of Vitamin D is effective -- and
safe -- for cancer prevention.
In the meantime,
eat oily fish along with milk and
fortified cereals. If you have darker skin or
are older than 50, get your vitamin D from
limited sun exposure or ask your doctor if
you require a supplement. The U.S. Food &
Drug Administration recommends 400 IU
for those 51 to 70 years old and 600 IU for
those 71 and older. Continue to wear sunscreen;
even though our bodies manufacture
vitamin D as a result of sun exposure, it isn't
worth the skin cancer risk.
Resources
Learn more about
Nutrition Services.
View our Information Guide [PDF].
Make an appointment with Cancer Center Nutrition Services by calling 734-647-8902.
