Natural Supplements

Hi UKFluff

Thanks for getting in touch. Welcome to the online community.

My name is Paula and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

I can see you have joined the breast cancer forum. I hope you’re finding it helpful sharing your experiences with others.

Sorry to hear about the difficulties you’ve been having with your mobility since starting your cancer treatment. Sounds like you have been struggling for some time and it’s understandable you have concerns

Hormone Therapies can affect people differently and some people have more unpleasant side-effects than others. Causing some people to stop taking it or changing the brand altogether after talking to their team.

Some dietary supplements can be beneficial for overall health and managing some health conditions. However, taking large doses can be harmful and bring unpleasant side-effects. It would be advisable to speak to your GP or your local pharmacist about the best strength to take.

Bone health is important whilst on hormone therapies. As it can lower oestrogen levels in women after the menopause and cause bone thinning (Osteoporosis). Calcium and Vitamin D are important for bones and reducing bone loss. Your GP maybe able to prescribe this for you.

There has been some research on the benefit of Turmeric for joint pain. It has shown to reduce inflammation especially in those who have arthritis. However, it’s not a recommend treatment by the NHS and not normally prescribed by the GP.

As you have already had a fall, it may be worth also asking your GP to refer you to the fall’s clinic for a risk assessment. The team might be able to provide further advice and support your mobility problems especially as you have had two falls.

Its important to continue with your exercise as it can help with the stiffness. Non weight bearing exercises such as swimming might be beneficial to try. Breast Cancer Now offer a Moving Forward Programme you might find helpful to look at

Eating a balanced diet can also help your body cope with cancer treatment and side-effects.  

I hope this information has been helpful, but if you need further support please don’t hesitate to get back in touch