Living with Breast Cancer: Natural Ways to Manage Hormone-Related Side Effects

Breast cancer treatment, especially hormone therapy, can cause challenging side effects like hot flashes, fatigue, mood swings, and joint pain. Medications are helpful, but so are natural solutions. Here are a few easy yet efficient strategies to deal with side effects caused by hormones.

Eat a Balanced Diet

What you eat has a huge impact on your hormones, especially during breast cancer treatment. Your body can remain robust and adverse effects can be lessened with a well-balanced diet. Start by including foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and oats, as these aid in the natural removal of excess hormones from your body. Healthy fats are also important. Fats such as those found in almonds, avocados, and olive oil, help to regulate hormones and maintain steady energy levels. Remember that cruciferous vegetables, such as cauliflower and broccoli, aid in the proper breakdown of estrogen. Conversely, reduce your intake of processed foods and sugar, as they might exacerbate hormone-related symptoms and increase inflammation. Even minor dietary adjustments can have a significant impact on your mood!

Stay Active

Frequent exercise can improve your mood, increase your energy, and reduce joint stiffness. To preserve bone health, try low-impact walks or swims, mild yoga for relaxation, and light strength training (with your doctor’s approval). During therapy, even minor movements have a significant impact on coping with side effects and maintaining strength.

Manage Hot Flashes Naturally

Dealing with hot flashes? By using these easy techniques, you can maintain your comfort. To make it easier to adapt when the temperature changes, start by wearing light clothes. Drink cold water to stay cool throughout the day; being hydrated aids in controlling body temperature. Avoid typical triggers that can worsen hot flashes, such as spicy foods, coffee, and alcohol. Try taking long, steady breaths to help your body relax during a heat flash. These minor adjustments can have a significant impact on how easily such unexpected heat waves are managed.

Reduce Stress & Improve Sleep

Managing stress and getting quality sleep are crucial for balancing hormones during breast cancer treatment. To calm your thoughts, begin with easy relaxation methods like deep breathing exercises or meditation. Establish a calming nighttime routine by turning off screens at least an hour before bed, lowering the lights, and drinking herbal tea without caffeine (peppermint or chamomile are great options). These minor routines tell your body to relax, which facilitates a better night’s sleep. Keep in mind that getting more sleep enables your body to repair and rejuvenate more efficiently, allowing you to face each day with greater vitality.

Stay Connected & Seek Support

Emotional well-being is important. Speak with loved ones, join a support group, or think about getting counseling. Experience sharing can reduce stress and offer helpful advice.

Living with breast cancer and managing hormone-related side effects isn’t easy, but small lifestyle changes can make a big difference.  Always listen to your body and get advice from your healthcare team before attempting any new treatments. Don’t underestimate your strength!