After reading Carol's, age 59, breast cancer story and her advice to be aware that low Vit D can be an added risk factor for breast cancer, I was quite amazed that not one of my Doctors had discussed that with me after my gastric bypass. I was routinely put on the supplements for zinc, magnesium, calcium citrate, b-50 complex and one adult multivitamin after the bypass in 2005. I was diagnosed with grade 2 breast cancer in Oct. 2007. Eventually, my supplement was changed to Calcium citrate with D. I have been suffering with severe fatigue. My question is, with gastric bypass, does the inabsorption of Vit d even a bigger factor contributing to breast cancer, and should I be on regular dosing of Vit. D now, to prevent recurrence of breast cancer, and if so, what would be the recommended doseage? I finished chemo and radiation on July 1, 2008. Thank-you!
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Q: What are the chances of low Vit D levels affecting the risk of brast cancer after gastric bypass?
Susan, if you've been through menopause, then you should probably be taking 1000-1200mg of vitamin D3 (the D3 part is important; not just vitamin D) a day. I'm not sure how a gastric bypass affects absorption; maybe not at all? At any rate, try to also get 30 minutes of sunlight a day (early morning and late afternoon; don't want to increase your skin cancer risk!). This will be another great source of vitamin D. There's no proof (yet) that lack of vitamin D increases your breast cancer risk, though there are some studies that seem to show this. But vitamin D is crucial to preserving bone health, and if you've been through menopause, your bones are definitely taking a hit, due to lack of estrogen. So there are lots of good reasons to be up to par with vitamin D3 (AND calcium). I suggest seeing a nutritionist at your hospital if you have any questions; they're usually very helpful. Good luck - PJH
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