Vitamin D and calcium and magnesium supplement

Hi Bellagirl 

Thanks for getting in touch. 

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

Welcome to the online community. I can see you’ve joined a couple of breast cancer forums. I hope you’re finding them helpful to share your experiences with others. 

It’s good to hear you’ve had your surgery and currently on Letrozole. I hope you’re well and tolerating Letrozole with minimum side-effects. 

Many people ask about supplements whilst on cancer treatments as they want to do as much as possible to help themselves and other underlying health conditions.   

There are many ways to look after your bone health and vitamin D and calcium is sometimes recommend. Vitamin D is taken in the winter months from October to early March as we do not make enough vitamin D during this period. 

Vitamin D helps the absorption of calcium from foods. The best way to increase your calcium intake is through your diet. Dairy products have a reliable source of calcium. If you find it hard to getting enough calcium through your diet, taking a calcium supplement can help. There is some evidence in animal studies that magnesium improves the immune system and can help with menopausal symptoms   

However, we would suggest before taking any supplements to speak to either your team, your GP, or the pharmacist beforehand, they are in an ideal position to advise you on the benefits of taking supplements and the dosage to take if you need them. Some supplements can have contraindications with letrozole. 

Living well after a cancer diagnosis is really important. Breast Cancer Now offer a range of support if you need it. Look Good feel Better offer a range of wellbeing workshops and classes. 

You may find it helpful to talk to one of our nurses on the support line. Sometimes giving us a call can help. It’s a free phone number on 0808 808 0000 and we are here 7 days a week, 8am-8pm or email us.  

I hope this information has been helpful, please don’t hesitate to get back in touch.  

Ref: PW/KHa