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2005/08/08, 11:57 AM
I found this question asked in another forum, and thought it may be well worth while posting here. It is answered by a highly respected doctor, so it may well be worth thinking about.
Q: I am concerned about my family's history of breast cancer and heard there is a test that could measure my own personal cancer risk based on my estrogen levels. Can you tell me what this test is all about?
JVW: According to research, 2-hydroxyestrogens are "good," while 16-hydroxyestrogens are "bad," and promote cancer growth. If you have more 16-hydroxyestrogens than 2-hydroxyestrogens, you have an increased risk of estrogen-related cancers like breast cancer, uterine cancer, etc.
A simple urine test called the 2/16 ratio can measure your levels of these estrogens.
If the results say your 2/16 ratio is off, you can improve it by eating three to four servings a week of Brassica vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, bok choy, or Brussels sprouts. But, there's no need to go overboard. Excessive intake of these particular vegetables can suppress thyroid function or lead to goiter. Soy products or 1 tablespoon of freshly ground flaxseed daily can also boost your ratio.
It may take only one of these foods to raise your 2/16 ratio, but sometimes it takes two or three to see a difference.
In many cases, your ratio will improve on this diet in just four to six weeks. If you find you're still not where you should be, you may want to consider taking supplements of the 2/16-ratio-improving substance found in Brassica vegetables, di-indolymethane (DIM). Take 60 milligrams three times daily and then check your ratio in another four to six weeks.
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If you don't stand for something, you will fall for anything....
bb1fit@freetrainers.com
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2006/02/20, 11:36 AM
I thought this was interesting information, but I'd like to add a couple of points regarding breast cancer:
* Not all breast cancers depend on estrogen for growth. I had a tumor which was negative for estrogen receptors. Even if you have a good ratio on the urine test and eat well, please keep up the breast self exams and mammograms!
* Family history is a factor in only about 15% of breast cancers. Even if you don't have a family history, please keep up on those exams! I did not have a strong family history, and had fooled myself into thinking I did not need to worry about yearly mammograms!
* Many breast cancers are detected in younger women. Don't neglect self-exams because of your age bracket. I was pre-menopausal when I found my lump.
* 80% of lumps are benign, so please don't hesitate to get checked if you discover one. Don't be in fear of finding out you may have cancer.
* Take care of your breast health - it is as important as anything else you do for yourself! :love:
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