June is #NationalCancerSurvivorMonth.
Many cancer treatments cause bone loss so it is important for survivors to consume nutrients, such as calcium and Vitamin D to support bone health.
It’s best to get your calcium from food rather than a supplement. Some good sources include yogurt, (go for unsweetened – I like Greek yogurt as I can use it like sour cream or top it with fruit, oats and nuts) tofu, (yes, tofu – more on soy soon!) sardines and dark leafy greens are all good sources. Calcium supplementation can be problematic as studies have raised concerns about adverse effect on cardiovascular health. In addition, drug and nutrient interactions as well as toxicity from elevated concentrations from supplements is possible. Eating calcium containing foods as part of a plant-based diet doesn’t carry the same risks!
As for Vitamin D, many people are deficient. Deficiency can be determined with bloodwork. Unlike calcium supplementation, many people benefit from a Vitamin D supplement. It’s one of the few supplements I recommend to many of my patients. A dietitian can help you pick a high-quality supplement (be mindful that the FDA doesn’t regulate supplements, so selection is important!)
Note: This post is not intended as a substitute for individualized medical advice.
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