Supplementing for serous: do supplements help lower cancer risk?

How many times have you scrolled past a social media ad claiming that a supplement will protect against cancer? It may be that because I’m a dietitian and cancer survivor, I see more of this content than the average person. These claims aren’t limited to ads; you’ve probably seen posts in a cancer support group yourself.

Claims of supplements lowering cancer risk are all around and I get why. Years of research has been done on supplement use, and more research is needed to confirm any findings of these observational studies with supplements. For example, the amount you would need to take to see any benefit and the safety of taking supplements long-term has not been confirmed. Currently, the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) recommends against using supplements for cancer prevention.

What about a general multivitamin? Contrary to popular belief, most healthy people don’t need multivitamins. If your typical eating pattern doesn’t give you all the nutrients you need, (whether that’s due to a cancer treatment, another chronic illness, or because you take medication that limits the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals) using a multivitamin may be protective. If you decide to complement a healthy eating pattern with supplements or add a supplement to your day, talk with your health care team to ensure they are safe for you.

What is the best choice in helping to prevent cancer and other diseases? Adding fruit, vegetables, and lean proteins to your meals, limiting alcohol use, avoiding tobacco, and getting regular movement in your day. Healthy lifestyle choices provide the best protection against low-grade serous ovarian cancer and cancer recurrence. Talk more with your health care team to learn more information about living a healthy lifestyle, and to learn more about creating healthful habits.