We’ve heard these studies before but now a new published report takes the claim a bit further.
This study reveals consuming an extra cup may stop or prevent the reoccurrence of breast cancer when taken with Tamoxifen.
Sound far-fetched?
Researchers at the University of Sweden don’t think so. They say it may be true: drinking coffee may help prevent the return of breast cancer.
Following 300 breast cancer patients for five years, researchers asked some to take Tamoxifen (a medication used for the treatment for early and advanced breast cancer) with coffee while the rest of the patients in the study refrained from coffee consumption and took their Tamoxifen on its own.
Participants in the study who drank two or more cups of coffee plus the Tamoxifen after breast cancer surgery had half the rate of cancer recurrence than that of the participants who did not drink coffee.
The researchers theorize that coffee acts to “activate Tamoxifen and make it more efficient.”
The connection between coffee consumption and a decreased risk in cancer is not new.
Other studies show coffee may slow the progression of cancer cells. Coffee has also been connected to a decreased risk of developing certain kinds of cancer including skin and colon cancer.
Lund University Associate Professor Helena Jernstrom stated, “We would like to know more about how lifestyle can interact with breast cancer treatment.
This is researcher talk for: we need to do more trials and research.
In the past year other studies pertaining to coffee and its effect on health have been published. Positive benefits of coffee drinking include:
• Decreased risk of diabetes
• Increased metabolism
• Increased heart health
• Longevity
• Decreased risk of stroke
Of course, if one doesn’t normally drink coffee, this study is not a green light to begin. Always check with your doctor before significantly altering your diet.
After all, going from no coffee to multiple cups of coffee may result in something you don’t want: a negative effect on the nerves!
Melissa AuClair blogs at www.launchyourcreativelife.com She has worked in multiple areas including 8 years on medical-surgical floors as a RN. She loves a good cup (or three) of coffee every morning.
