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Curcumin for Cancer: What It Is, How It May Help, and Safety Olivia Pearman Cancerchoices.org

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Rochester, NY
April 23
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Answer Summary

Members discussed curcumin for cancer and its potential to ease joint pain caused by aromatase inhibitors like Letrozole and Anastrozole, with... Read more

Members discussed curcumin for cancer and its potential to ease joint pain caused by aromatase inhibitors like Letrozole and Anastrozole, with several sharing personal experiences of relief. A recurring theme was the importance of checking with an oncologist first, as some doctors cautioned that high-dose curcumin supplements may interfere with treatment effectiveness. Members also noted that curcumin with black pepper or turmeric essential oils improves absorption, and that cooking with turmeric alone may not provide the same benefit as supplements.

A MyBCTeam Member

I started taking curcumin several years ago because of its affects on memory, Alzheimer’s and dementia. My mother had Alzheimer’s. I take curcumin rather than turmeric because curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric. I’ve even noticed some days when I don’t take it that I have trouble finding words. I’ll include the front and back cover of the small book on curcumin by Dr. jan McBarron.

April 23 (edited)
A MyBCTeam Member

My GP, agreed with everything my oncology team recommended.
I have found great information on BC Team...which has helped me so much...

April 27
A MyBCTeam Member

I'm on Anastrozol and I just started taking a tumeric curcumin supplement for the joint pain in my knees mostly. Hope it helps 🤞

April 25
MyBCTeam

What is curcumin and how might it help with breast cancer?

Curcumin is the beneficial compound that gives turmeric its vibrant golden color. It's an inexpensive spice with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Research suggests curcumin may have anticancer effects on breast cancer cells, particularly Show Full Answer

What is curcumin and how might it help with breast cancer?

Curcumin is the beneficial compound that gives turmeric its vibrant golden color. It's an inexpensive spice with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Research suggests curcumin may have anticancer effects on breast cancer cells, particularly triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Some studies show it may help support overall health during treatment.

A MyBCTeam member shared that they add turmeric to eggs, smoothies, soups, and salads as part of their anti-cancer diet regimen. Adding black pepper when using turmeric may enhance its benefits, as pepper helps your body absorb and use curcumin more effectively. Important safety considerations:

If you're taking tamoxifen, be cautious with curcumin supplements. Research shows curcumin may interfere with how your body processes tamoxifen, potentially making it less effective. A small study found that curcumin decreased the level of active endoxifen (the active form of tamoxifen) in the bloodstream.

Adding turmeric as a spice to food is generally considered safe, but high-dose curcumin supplements may pose risks if you're on certain breast cancer medications.

Always discuss any supplements with your oncologist before starting them, especially if you're currently in treatment.

April 23
A MyBCTeam Member

My doctors have all said not to take Curcumin, that it can interfere with the effectiveness of the aromatase inhibitors (Letrozole and Anastrozole).

April 28

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