Should breast cancer survivors avoid foods containing phytoestrogens?

This question is a hot topic today and the source of heated debate for many nutrition professionals. Many believe that you should avoid phytoestrogens if you have had breast cancer.

Here is my take on it:  This does make sense considering the risks. What many people do not consider, however, is that phyto estrogens are in many healthful foods like yams, chickpeas and soy. Having worked with many breast cancer survivors, I believe a plant based, whole foods diet with fresh, organic foods is best. Be sure to vary the foods you choosing in order not to receive too many servings of phytoestrogens.

 As a general rule, as long as you are not chugging back gallons of soy milk (which is highly processed and should be consumed in small quantities anyway) you need not excessively limit your intake of phytoestrogens. Just be mindful of eating more than 1 serving or so of these foods daily.

 Also keep in mind that your adrenal glands play an important role in your hormone health and eating foods like sugar and caffeine can lead to hormone imbalance as well. These foods are more troublesome in my experience, than the phytoestrogen foods. Everyone’s body is different, so be sure to check with your doctor.