I have been on a vegetarian / vegan diet for years , I was diagnosed recently with breast cancer (secondary) just before christmas. I feel I should pas this info on … Soya is NOT good for breast cancer, so you may like to find another dairy free alternative , like almond, hazelnut, hemp etc . i now have almond milk. And am also trying another path to healing myself from this illness. Was given short life expectancy , but still here 
Hello @alreadytaken
Thanks for posting.
Information about soy and breast cancer can be confusing and conflicting. Our Forum team asked us here in the nursing team for latest evidence.
Soy contains isoflavones and lignans, which are weak phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens are naturally occurring plant substances that have a chemical structure similar to the female hormone oestrogen which is why there has been concern about its safety. But phytoestrogens are not the same thing as female hormones and don’t affect the body in the same way.
Soy food includes tofu, soybeans (edamame) and soy milk. Isoflavones are also found in other beans, nuts, peas and lentils and lignans are found in a variety of fruits, vegetables and cereal products. There isn’t any evidence to suggest a moderate amount of soy in a person’s diet is harmful. In fact, there is emerging research that suggests it may be beneficial in reducing the risk of the cancer coming back.
The safety of supplements containing soy is yet to be established so they are generally not recommended.
You may be interested in the report from the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF)Diet, Nutrition, Physical Activity and Cancer: a Global Perspective.
This abstract from the article Impact of Soy Foods on the Development of Breast Cancer and the Prognosis of Breast Cancer Patients might also be of interest.
You might like to know about the information and support we offer those affected by secondary breast cancer.
You mention trying another path to heal yourself. If you would like to discuss this, the soy information or anything else do get in touch.
We often find we can help people more by speaking to them on the phone. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.
The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK -prefix 18001).
Our opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am - 4pm and 9am -1pm on Saturday. Out of hours you can leave a message and we will call you back when we next open.
Thank you for contacting us. Please contact us again in the future if you have any further queries.
Kind regards
Jane
Breast Care Nurse
Breast Cancer Now
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