#395 Vitamin B6 and Breast Cancer - The Science You Need to Know

In this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, we tackle the complex world of supplements, focusing on one essential yet often misunderstood vitamin: B6.

For breast cancer survivors, supplements can feel like a lifeline, but they’re not always the safest or most effective choice. Join me, as I dive into understanding the role of supplements and the science behind vitamin B6, its role in the body, and why it deserves special consideration after a breast cancer diagnosis.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why breast cancer survivors often turn to supplements for a sense of safety.
• The staggering amount of money spent annually on supplements—and how much is actually absorbed by the body.
• The critical role of vitamin B6 in hormone regulation, brain health, and energy metabolism.
• How cancer treatments alter liver function and impact vitamin metabolism.
• Why high doses of B6 supplements may pose risks for breast cancer survivors, including interference with cancer treatments.
• Evidence from studies exploring the relationship between B6, cancer, and overall health outcomes.
• The benefits of getting B6 from whole foods and a list of nutrient-rich options.

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Links to Studies Cited

1. Dietary Sources vs. Supplementation of B6:
   • Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention: Read the study here
   • Highlights the benefits of plasma B6 levels from dietary sources and associated health markers.
2. B6 Supplementation and Cancer Treatments:
   • Journal of Clinical Oncology: Access the study here