If you have breast cancer, you may be wondering what you can do to support healing, in addition to your cancer treatments. This evidence-based guide shows how to take a proactive role in your care. Many of the practices detailed below may help you feel better and manage side effects.
In this guide, we cover:
- Key foods for breast cancer
- Lifestyle practices
- Managing blood sugar
- Mind-body practices
- Supplements
- Other complementary therapies
At CancerChoices, we use the term complementary therapy. This describes the use of safe, evidence-based, holistic and natural therapies and practices in addition to standard medical care. When you combine these complementary therapies with lifestyle changes and modern cancer medicine in a safe, coordinated way, we call this an integrative approach.
We strongly recommend working with an expert trained in the use of complementary therapies, including integrative oncologists and FABNO Certified Naturopathic Oncologists. Learn more about finding integrative oncology professionals to support you.
Key foods for breast cancer recovery
What you eat after a breast cancer diagnosis can play a role in survival outcomes, risk of cancer coming back, and day-to-day well-being. Choose a plant-forward eating pattern and nourishing whole foods. This diet approach may support healing, help you feel better during treatment, and promote long-term health.
These highlights detail what the research shows:
- Plant-forward food: Choosing a plant-rich way of eating, such as a Mediterranean-style pattern. Diets lower in fat and higher in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fiber may support better survival. In some cases, they may even lower the risk that cancer comes back. These diets may also ease side effects such as fatigue, nerve damage, poor sleep, and hot flashes.1Prentice RL, Aragaki AK et al. Low-fat dietary pattern among postmenopausal women influences long-term cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes outcomes. Journal of Nutrition. 2019 Jun 8. pii: nxz107; Chlebowski RT, Aragaki AK et al. Dietary modification and breast cancer mortality: long-term follow-up of the Women’s Health Initiative randomized trial. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2020;38(13):1419‐1428; Pierce JP. Diet and breast cancer prognosis: making sense of the Women’s Healthy Eating and Living and Women’s Intervention Nutrition Study trials. Current Opinions in Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2009 Feb;21(1):86-91; Zick SM, Colacino J et al. Fatigue reduction diet in breast cancer survivors: a pilot randomized clinical trial. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment. 2017 Jan;161(2):299-310; Grim J, Ticha A, Hyspler R, Valis M, Zadak Z. Selected risk nutritional factors for chemotherapy-induced polyneuropathy. Nutrients. 2017 May 25;9(6):535; Gold EB, Flatt SW et al. Dietary factors and vasomotor symptoms in breast cancer survivors: the WHEL Study. Menopause. 2006 May-Jun;13(3):423-33
- Eat soy-rich foods: Research links foods such as tofu, edamame, or isoflavones with lower mortality. This link is strongest for people with tumors that don’t have hormone receptors and those who are not on hormone therapy.2Wang Q, Liu X, Ren S. Tofu intake is inversely associated with risk of breast cancer: a meta-analysis of observational studies. PLoS One. 2020 Jan 7;15(1):e0226745; Nechuta SJ, Caan BJ et al. Soy food intake after diagnosis of breast cancer and survival: an in-depth analysis of combined evidence from cohort studies of US and Chinese women. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2012 Jul;96(1):123-32; Chi F, Wu R, Zeng YC, Xing R, Liu Y, Xu ZG. Post-diagnosis soy food intake and breast cancer survival: a meta-analysis of cohort studies. Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention. 2013;14(4):2407-12.
- Eat lignan-rich foods: Foods including flaxseed, sesame, whole grains, berries, leafy greens, and green tea are high in lignans. Research links these foods to lower mortality, particularly in women who have been through menopause.3Buck K, Zaineddin AK et al. Estimated enterolignans, lignan-rich foods, and fibre in relation to survival after postmenopausal breast cancer. British Journal of Cancer. 2011 Oct 11;105(8):1151-7; Olsen A, Christensen J, et al. Prediagnostic plasma enterolactone levels and mortality among women with breast cancer. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment. 2011;128:883-889; Guglielmini P, Rubagotti A, Boccardo F. Serum enterolactone levels and mortality outcome in women with early breast cancer: a retrospective cohort study. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment. 2012;132:661-668.
- Avoid sugar-sweetened beverages: Studies link regular intake of sweet drinks with a higher risk of death. The link is stronger among people with cancer that has estrogen receptors and those with higher BMI.4Koyratty N, McCann SE et al. Sugar-sweetened soda consumption and total and breast cancer mortality: the Western New York Exposures and Breast Cancer (WEB) Study. Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention. 2021 Mar 2:cebp.1242.2020.
Lifestyle practices for breast cancer
Our CancerChoices 7 Lifestyle Practices are at the heart of whole-person cancer care. These evidence-based practices can help you get through treatment and beyond.
The 7 Lifestyle Practices can make
you healthier in many ways
Adding these practices may support your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. They may help you manage symptoms, reduce side effects, and lower the risk of cancer coming back.
Read more about each practice below.
Move more
Being active during and after cancer care can help you feel better, get better faster, and improve long-term health. Women who are more active after a breast cancer diagnosis often live longer and have less fatigue. Physical activity also supports strength, energy, and day-to-day function during treatment and beyond.
You do not have to do intense exercise to benefit. Even short walks, gentle stretching, light activity, or breaking up long periods of sitting can make a difference. Over time, regular movement—at a level that feels right for you—can support your mood, sleep, and overall well-being.5Lee J. A meta-analysis of the association between physical activity and breast cancer mortality. Cancer Nursing. 2019 Jul/Aug;42(4):271-285; Spei ME, Samoli E, Bravi F, La Vecchia C, Bamia C, Benetou V. Physical activity in breast cancer survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis on overall and breast cancer survival. Breast. 2019 Apr;44:144-152; Lahart IM, Metsios GS, Nevill AM, Carmichael AR. Physical activity, risk of death and recurrence in breast cancer survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiological studies. Acta Oncologica. 2015 May;54(5):635-54; Ballard-Barbash R, Friedenreich CM et al. Physical activity, biomarkers, and disease outcomes in cancer survivors: a systematic review. Journal of the National Cancer Institute. 2012 Jun 6;104(11):815-40.
Manage stress
Managing stress during and after treatment can support your emotional well-being, quality of life, and daily coping. Many people with breast cancer feel high levels of stress. Finding ways to ease it can help you feel more grounded and supported.
Small steps can help reduce anxiety and distress. Try relaxation exercises, yoga, meditation, counseling, or join a support group. Your care team can help you find tools that fit your needs. Ask for a referral to support services or mind–body programs.6Hahn EE, Munoz-Plaza CE et al. Effect of a community-based medical oncology depression screening program on behavioral health referrals among patients with breast cancer: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA. 2022;327(1):41–49; Hsueh EJ, Loh EW, Lin JJ, Tam KW. Effects of yoga on improving quality of life in patients with breast cancer: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Breast Cancer. 2021 Mar;28(2):264-276; Buffart LM, van Uffelen JG et al. Physical and psychosocial benefits of yoga in cancer patients and survivors, a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. BMC Cancer. 2012 Nov 27;12:559; Greenlee H, DuPont-Reyes MJ et al. Clinical practice guidelines on the evidence-based use of integrative therapies during and after breast cancer treatment. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. 2017 May 6;67(3):194-232.
Share love and support
Your partner, family, friends, peer groups, faith communities, and other loved ones play a key role in cancer care. Strong, reliable social support can ease the emotional toll of breast cancer. Studies link feeling supported with a higher quality of life, better coping, and fewer mental health concerns. Support can also help people stay on long-term treatments, such as hormone therapy.7Falagas ME, Zarkadoulia EA et al. The effect of psychosocial factors on breast cancer outcome: a systematic review. Breast Cancer Research. 2007;9(4):R44; Kroenke CH, Kubzansky LD, Schernhammer ES, Holmes MD, Kawachi I. Social networks, social support, and survival after breast cancer diagnosis. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2006 Mar 1;24(7):1105-11; Maunsell E, Brisson J, Deschênes L. Social support and survival among women with breast cancer. Cancer. 1995 Aug 15;76(4):631-7; Chou AF, Stewart SL et al. Social support and survival in young women with breast carcinoma. Psychooncology. 2012 Feb;21(2):125-33; Lin C, Clark R, Tu P, Bosworth HB, Zullig LL. Breast cancer oral anti-cancer medication adherence: a systematic review of psychosocial motivators and barriers. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment. 2017 Sep;165(2):247-260; Bright EE, Stanton AL. Prospective investigation of social support, coping, and depressive symptoms: a model of adherence to endocrine therapy among women with breast cancer. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology. 2018 Mar;86(3):242-253.
Support groups offer many benefits for many women. In-person groups tend to show the most benefit over time. They can improve mood, coping, and quality of life, especially for those with higher distress. Some formats—such as couples-based or culturally tailored programs—may provide extra benefit. Support groups are a helpful emotional resource, but not a medical treatment.8Björneklett HG, Lindemalm C et al. A randomised controlled trial of support group intervention after breast cancer treatment: results on anxiety and depression. Acta Oncologica. 2012 Feb;51(2):198-207; Manne SL, Siegel SD, Heckman CJ, Kashy DA. A randomized clinical trial of a supportive versus a skill-based couple-focused group intervention for breast cancer patients. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology. 2016 Aug;84(8):668-81; Taylor KL, Lamdan RM, Siegel JE, Shelby R, Moran-Klimi K, Hrywna M. Psychological adjustment among African American breast cancer patients: one-year follow-up results of a randomized psychoeducational group intervention. Health Psychology. 2003 May;22(3):316-23; Cunningham AJ, Edmonds CV et al. A randomized controlled trial of the effects of group psychological therapy on survival in women with metastatic breast cancer. Psycho-oncology. 1998 Nov-Dec;7(6):508-17; Goodwin PJ, Leszcz M et al. The effect of group psychosocial support on survival in metastatic breast cancer. New England Journal of Medicine. 2001 Dec 13;345(24):1719-26; Björneklett HG, Rosenblad A et al. Long-term follow-up of a randomized study of support group intervention in women with primary breast cancer. Journal of Psychosomatic Research. 2013 Apr;74(4):346-53.
Read about Sharing Love and Support ›
Sleep well
Good sleep can help everyone’s mood, energy, thinking, and overall health. These are key during and after cancer care. In people with breast cancer, studies link poor sleep with more anxiety, depression, and pain.9Sephton SE, Sapolsky RM, Kraemer HC, Spiegel D. Diurnal cortisol rhythm as a predictor of breast cancer survival. Journal of the National Cancer Institute. 2000 Jun 21;92(12):994-1000; Cho OH, Hwang KH. Association between sleep quality, anxiety and depression among Korean breast cancer survivors. Nursing Open. 2021 May;8(3):1030-1037; Theobald DE. Cancer pain, fatigue, distress, and insomnia in cancer patients. Clinical Cornerstone. 2004;6 Suppl 1D:S15-21.
For example, studies have linked the broken sleep rhythms of night work or rotating shift work to worse breast cancer survival.10Lin X, Chen W et al. Night-shift work increases morbidity of breast cancer and all-cause mortality: a meta-analysis of 16 prospective cohort studies. Sleep Medicine. 2015 Nov;16(11):1381-1387.
Simple habits can help improve sleep over time. Keep a regular sleep schedule, get morning light, stay active during the day, and skip screen time before bed. If sleep problems continue, talk with your care team. They can help you treat sleep issues early, which may improve daily well-being and recovery.
Create a healing environment
Your home, workplace, and the natural spaces around you can improve your well-being. Spending time in calming spaces, nature, or fresh air can support emotional and physical health during and after treatment.
The environment you live in each day can also affect your health. Studies link exposure to some pesticides at work to higher health risks after breast cancer.11Høyer AP, Jørgensen T, Brock JW, Grandjean P. Organochlorine exposure and breast cancer survival. Journal of Clinical Epidemiology. 2000 Mar 1;53(3):323-30.
Read about Creating a Healing Environment ›
Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol
Making healthy choices can support your long-term health after breast cancer. Healthy living includes not smoking, not drinking, being active, eating well, and being a healthy weight. Studies link these to a lower risk of cancer coming back and better survival, especially for high-risk stage I–III breast cancer.12Cannioto RA, Attwood KM et al. Adherence to cancer prevention lifestyle recommendations before, during, and 2 years after treatment for high-risk breast cancer. JAMA Network Open. 2023 May 1;6(5):e2311673; Kwan ML, Valice E et al. Alcohol consumption and prognosis and survival in breast cancer survivors: The Pathways Study. Cancer. 2023 Dec 15;129(24):3938-3951; Saquib N, Pierce JP et al. Poor physical health predicts time to additional breast cancer events and mortality in breast cancer survivors. Psychooncology. 2011 Mar;20(3):252-9; Parada H Jr, Bradshaw PT et al. Postdiagnosis Changes in Cigarette Smoking and Survival Following Breast Cancer. JNCI Cancer Spectrum. 2017 Sep;1(1):pkx001.
Many experts suggest that less alcohol is better, less than one drink per day, if you choose to drink at all. Quitting smoking at any point has benefits. If you need support changing your habits, your care team can offer tips, tools, and programs to help you.
Manage blood sugar and diabetes
If you have diabetes or prediabetes, taking good care of your blood sugar during breast cancer care is important. Strong evidence suggests it can have a positive impact on survival and side effects.
- Studies link having diabetes at the time of a breast cancer diagnosis with worse survival. Other research shows diabetes is also linked with more treatment complications. Keeping blood sugar in a healthy range may support better outcomes.13Lee KN, Torres MA, et al. Type 2 diabetes, breast cancer specific and overall mortality: Associations by metformin use and modification by race, body mass, and estrogen receptor status. PLOS ONE. 2020 May 5;15(5):e0232581; Peairs KS, Barone BB, et al. Diabetes mellitus and breast cancer outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2011 Jan 1;29(1):40–46; Srokowski TP, Fang S, Hortobagyi GN, Giordano SH. Impact of diabetes mellitus on complications and outcomes of adjuvant chemotherapy in older patients with breast cancer. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2009 May 1;27(13):2170–2176.
- Diabetes increases the risk of certain side effects from cancer care. It raises the chance of nerve damage from taxane chemotherapy. It can also slow wound healing and raise infection risk after surgery.14Seretny M, Currie GL et al. Incidence, prevalence, and predictors of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Pain. 2014 Dec;155(12):2461-2470; de la Morena Barrio P, et al. Delayed recovery and increased severity of paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy in patients with breast cancer and diabetes mellitus. Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. 2015 Apr;13(4):417–423; Vilar-Compte D, Rosales S, et al. Hyperglycemia as a risk factor for surgical site infections in patients undergoing mastectomy. American Journal of Infection Control. 2008;36(3):192–198; Martin ET, Kaye KS et al. Diabetes and risk of surgical site infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology. 2016 Jan;37(1):88-99.
Additional body terrain factors also have links to cancer outcomes. These include inflammation, the microbiome, and the immune system. Explore how to be proactive about optimizing these factors.
Read more about Optimizing Your Body Terrain ›
Mind-body practices to support your well-being
Living with breast cancer brings emotional strain on top of everyday stress. Tests, treatments, side effects, and fears that cancer will come back can take a toll on your well-being. When combined with medical care, mind-body practices can help ease this burden. They may also help you deal with symptoms during and after cancer care.
Mind-body work uses the link between your mind and body to support quality of life. In women with breast cancer, these may reduce anxiety, depression, fatigue, sleep problems, and stress. Adding them to your care plan may help you cope, build resilience, and feel more supported.
- Mindfulness: Structured mindfulness programs, like mindfulness-based stress reduction, are guided group work to lower stress. Studies show they can ease anxiety, depression, and overall distress during and after breast cancer care. In addition, practicing mindfulness at home may also help with fatigue and brain fog.15Reangsing C, Punsuwun S, Keller K. Effects of mindfulness-based interventions on depression in patients with breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Integrative Cancer Therapies. 2023 Jan-Dec;22:15347354231220617; Zeng Y, Dong J, Huang M, Zhang JE, Zhang X, Xie M, Wefel JS. Nonpharmacological interventions for cancer-related cognitive impairment in adult cancer patients: A network meta-analysis. International Journal of Nursing Studies. 2020 Apr;104:103514; Yuan Y, Lin L et al. Effectiveness comparisons of various psychosocial therapies for cancer-related fatigue: A Bayesian network meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders. 2022 Jul 15;309:471-481; Carlson LE, Tamagawa R, Stephen J et al. Randomized-controlled trial of mindfulness-based cancer recovery versus supportive expressive group therapy among distressed breast cancer survivors (MINDSET): long-term follow-up results. Psychooncology. 2016 Jul;25(7):750-9; Ratcliff CG, Prinsloo S et al. A randomized controlled trial of brief mindfulness meditation for women undergoing stereotactic breast biopsy. Journal of the American College of Radiology. 2019 May;16(5):691-699.
- Guided imagery: A relaxation practice that’s often taught within mindfulness programs. Studies show it may help somewhat with coping and mood. It may also help reduce nausea around chemotherapy or stress during radiotherapy or biopsy.16Yoo HJ, Ahn SH, Kim SB, Kim WK, Han OS. Efficacy of progressive muscle relaxation training and guided imagery in reducing chemotherapy side effects in patients with breast cancer and in improving their quality of life. Supportive Care in Cancer. 2005 Oct;13(10):826-33; Walker LG, Walker MB et al. Psychological, clinical and pathological effects of relaxation training and guided imagery during primary chemotherapy. British Journal of Cancer. 1999 Apr;80(1-2):262-8; Molassiotis A, Yung HP, Yam BM, Chan FY, Mok TS. The effectiveness of progressive muscle relaxation training in managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in Chinese breast cancer patients: a randomised controlled trial. Supportive Care in Cancer. 2002 Apr;10(3):237-46; Nunes DF, Rodriguez AL et al. Relaxation and guided imagery program in patients with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy is not associated with neuroimmunomodulatory effects. Journal of Psychosomatic Research. 2007 Dec;63(6):647-55; Freeman L, Cohen L et al. Imagery intervention for recovering breast cancer patients: clinical trial of safety and efficacy. Journal of the Society for Integrative Oncology. 2008 Spring;6(2):67-75; Kolcaba K, Fox C. The effects of guided imagery on comfort of women with early stage breast cancer undergoing radiation therapy. Oncology Nursing Forum. 1999 Jan-Feb;26(1):67-72.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy: Therapy has some of the strongest evidence among mind-body practices for women with breast cancer. It can improve sleep, reduce hot flashes, and ease mental health issues. Some studies show the benefits of therapy lasting for years. Studies of programs that use therapy to teach stress management show better quality of life and, in a few trials, signals for better survival.17Ma Y, Hall DL et al. Efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia in breast cancer: a meta-analysis. Sleep Medicine Review. 2021 Feb;55:101376; Mann E, Smith MJ et al. Cognitive behavioural treatment for women who have menopausal symptoms after breast cancer treatment (MENOS 1): a randomised controlled trial. Lancet Oncology. 2012 Mar;13(3):309-18; Chilcot J, Norton S, Hunter MS. Cognitive behaviour therapy for menopausal symptoms following breast cancer treatment: Who benefits and how does it work? Maturitas. 2014 May;78(1):56-61; Antoni MH, Lehman JM et al. Cognitive-behavioral stress management intervention decreases the prevalence of depression and enhances benefit finding among women under treatment for early-stage breast cancer. Health Psychology. 2001 Jan;20(1):20-32; Gudenkauf LM, Antoni MH et al. Brief cognitive-behavioral and relaxation training interventions for breast cancer: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology. 2015 Aug;83(4):677-688; Stagl JM, Bouchard LC et al. Long-term psychological benefits of cognitive-behavioral stress management for women with breast cancer: 11-year follow-up of a randomized controlled trial. Cancer. 2015 Jun 1;121(11):1873-81; Andersen BL, Yang HC et al. Psychologic intervention improves survival for breast cancer patients: a randomized clinical trial. Cancer. 2008 Dec 15;113(12):3450-8; Hummel SB, van Lankveld JJDM et al. Efficacy of internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy in improving sexual functioning of breast cancer survivors: results of a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2017 Apr 20;35(12):1328-1340; Carlson LE, Ismaila N et al. Integrative oncology care of symptoms of anxiety and depression in adults with cancer: Society for Integrative Oncology-ASCO Guideline. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2023 Oct 1;41(28):4562-4591; Irwin MR, Hoang D et al. Tai Chi compared with cognitive behavioral therapy and the reversal of systemic, cellular and genomic markers of inflammation in breast cancer survivors with insomnia: A randomized clinical trial. Brain, Behavior, and Immunit. 2024 Aug;120:159-166; Heinrich R, Schilling G et al. Effects of mobile application-based cognitive behavioral therapy on psychological outcomes in women treated for breast cancer: a randomized controlled pilot trial in Germany. Psychooncology. 2024 Oct;33(10):e70003; Arefian M, Asgari-Mobarake K. Mindfulness-integrated Cognitive Behavioral Therapy reduces pain and psychological distress, and improves equanimity, hope and post-traumatic growth during breast cancer treatment: A pilot randomized controlled trial. European Journal of Oncology Nursing. 2025 Jun;76:102881.
- Music therapy: Guided healing with music, led by a credentialed music therapist, can reduce anxiety and depression during treatment, studies show. It may help shorten recovery time after breast surgery. Some studies show that music therapy, combined with gentle movement or relaxation, can improve fatigue and sleep. It is safe, easy to access, and endorsed in clinical guidelines to support mood during and after breast cancer treatment. You’ll need to check with your insurance provider to see if it’s covered.18Zhou K, Li X et al. A clinical randomized controlled trial of music therapy and progressive muscle relaxation training in female breast cancer patients after radical mastectomy: results on depression, anxiety and length of hospital stay. European Journal of Oncology Nursing. 2015 Feb;19(1):54-9; Alcântara-Silva TR, de Freitas-Junior R et al. Music therapy reduces radiotherapy-induced fatigue in patients with breast or gynecological cancer: a randomized trial. Integrative Cancer Therapies. 2018 Sep;17(3):628-635; Chang L, Wang Y et al. Effect of music therapy combined with aerobic exercise on sleep quality among breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy after a radical mastectomy: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Womens Health. 2024 Jul 18;24(1):408; Xu Z, Liu C, Fan W, Li S, Li Y. Effect of music therapy on anxiety and depression in breast cancer patients: systematic review and meta-analysis. Scientific Reports. 2024 Jul 17;14(1):16532; Pozhhan M, Sobhani S et al. The effect of music therapy on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in women with breast cancer. Indian Journal of Cancer. 2023;60(1):87–91; Greenlee H, DuPont-Reyes MJ et al. Clinical practice guidelines on the evidence-based use of integrative therapies during and after breast cancer treatment. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. 2017 May 6;67(3):194-232.
- Aromatherapy: Scent-based supportive care may offer short-term benefits for sleep, anxiety, and nausea. Lavender has evidence for easing anxiety before surgery and may help with sleep. Peppermint can reduce nausea and loss of appetite during chemotherapy. Women with cancers that have estrogen receptors should avoid applying lavender oil on the skin. It can have hormone-like activity, so is generally considered safer to just inhale the scents.19Hanci et al. 2025; Jafarimanesh H, Akbari M, Hoseinian R, Zarei M, Harorani M. The effect of peppermint (Mentha piperita) extract on the severity of nausea, vomiting and anorexia in patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy: a randomized controlled trial. Integrative Cancer Therapies. 2020 Jan-Dec;19:1534735420967084; Graham PH, Browne L, Cox H, Graham J. Inhalation aromatherapy during radiotherapy: results of a placebo-controlled double-blind randomized trial. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2003 Jun 15;21(12):2372-6; Cheng H, Lin L et al. Aromatherapy with single essential oils can significantly improve the sleep quality of cancer patients: a meta-analysis. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies. 2022 Jul 14;22(1):187; Yildirim D, Harman Ozdogan M et al. The efficacy of lavender oil on fatigue and sleep quality in patients with hematological malignancy receiving chemotherapy: a single-blind randomized controlled trial. Supportive Care in Cancer. 2025 Jan 8;33(2):79; Simões BM, Kohler B et al. Estrogenicity of essential oils is not required to relieve symptoms of urogenital atrophy in breast cancer survivors. Therapeutic Advances in Medical Oncology. 2018 Apr 2;10:1758835918766189; Henley DV, Lipson N, Korach KS, Bloch CA. Prepubertal gynecomastia linked to lavender and tea tree oils. New England Journal of Medicine. 2007 Feb 1;356(5):479-85; Zhang F, Cheng L et al. Effect of aromatherapy massage with lavender essential oil on sleep quality, pain, and mental and psychiatric disorders among breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy: a randomized controlled trial. Supportive Care in Cancer. 2025 Jul 14;33(8):689; Tabei P, Molazem Z et al. The effect of Citrus aurantium inhalation aromatherapy on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in breast cancer patients: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies. 2025 Oct 7;25(1):359.
- Relaxation techniques: Progressive muscle relaxation or guided breathing may reduce fatigue, anxiety, and nausea. They may also support better sleep, help with hot flashes, and relieve pain, including joint pain, during hormone therapy. These techniques are simple, safe, and you can learn them in short sessions.20Minowa C, Koitabashi K. The effect of autogenic training on salivary immunoglobulin A in surgical patients with breast cancer: a randomized pilot trial. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice. 2014 Nov;20(4):193-6; Gok Metin Z, Karadas C, Izgu N, Ozdemir L, Demirci U. Effects of progressive muscle relaxation and mindfulness meditation on fatigue, coping styles, and quality of life in early breast cancer patients: an assessor blinded, three-arm, randomized controlled trial. European Journal of Oncology Nursing. 2019 Oct;42:116-125; Molassiotis A. A pilot study of the use of progressive muscle relaxation training in the management of post-chemotherapy nausea and vomiting. European Journal of Cancer Care (England). 2000 Dec;9(4):230-4; Fenlon DR, Corner JL, Haviland JS. A randomized controlled trial of relaxation training to reduce hot flashes in women with primary breast cancer. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management. 2008 Apr;35(4):397-405; Shirzadi M, Farshchian N et al. Escitalopram and progressive muscle relaxation training are both effective for the treatment of hot flashes in patients with breast cancer: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics and Gynaecology. 2022 Dec;43(4):393-399; Gudenkauf LM, Antoni MH et al. Brief cognitive-behavioral and relaxation training interventions for breast cancer: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology. 2015 Aug;83(4):677-688; Johannsen M, Farver I, Beck N, Zachariae R. The efficacy of psychosocial intervention for pain in breast cancer patients and survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment. 2013 Apr;138(3):675-90; Yang GS, Kim HJ et al. Interventions for the treatment of aromatase inhibitor-associated arthralgia in breast cancer survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Cancer Nursing. 2017 Jul/Aug;40(4):E26-E41;Huddar V, Vernekar S et al. Comparative effect of progressive relaxation technique and Benson’s technique on anxiety and fatigue in cancer survivors – an experimental study. Current Problems in Cancer. 2023 Feb;47(1):100933; Bahçacı U, Atasavun US et al. Progressive relaxation training in patients with breast cancer receiving aromatase inhibitor therapy-randomized controlled trial. PLoS One. 2024 Apr 18;19(4):e0301020; Luyan G, Lizhi Z et al. Effects of dynamic and static relaxation therapy on cancer-induced fatigue and sleep disorders in patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy: a randomized control trial. Supportive Care in Cancer. 2024 Dec 31;33(1):65.
- Yoga: The clinical guidelines developed by ASCO and SIO recommend yoga for anxiety, depression, and overall quality of life.21Lyman GH, Greenlee H et al. Integrative Therapies During and After Breast Cancer Treatment: ASCO Endorsement of the SIO Clinical Practice Guideline. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2018;36(25):2647-2655.
Explore free videos from the Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies at Dana Farber Cancer Center › or the Cancer Support Community ›
What supplements can help during breast cancer care?
A supplement is a product made from vitamins, minerals, herbs, or other natural substances that people take to support their health. These products are in addition to, not instead of, your doctor’s breast cancer care.
Some supplements have clinical evidence in women with breast cancer. Some may ease treatment side effects, others may improve quality of life. In a few cases, studies of specific supplements suggest they may be able to improve outcomes. The strength of evidence varies by supplement, and benefits are often modest or early-stage. Always consult your doctor before taking any supplements.
- Vitamin D: Lower vitamin D levels are common after breast cancer diagnosis. Research consistently links higher blood vitamin D levels with lower death rate and risk of cancer coming back. Taking vitamin D after a cancer diagnosis may have some benefits, especially for cancers with an estrogen receptor. Our vitamin D research also discovered that too much vitamin D can also be problematic. So doing blood work and staying within a certain range is recommended. A large calcium and vitamin D trial suggested a small survival benefit, but saw a possible raised risk of heart issues.22Li C, Li H, Zhong H, Li X. Association of 25-hydroxyvitamin D level with survival outcomes in female breast cancer patients: a meta-analysis. Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. 2021 Sep;212:105947; Maalmi H, Ordóñez-Mena JM, Schöttker B, Brenner H. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and survival in colorectal and breast cancer patients: systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. European Journal of Cancer. 2014 May;50(8):1510-21; Kim Y, Je Y. Vitamin D intake, blood 25(OH)D levels, and breast cancer risk or mortality: a meta-analysis. British Journal of Cancer. 2014 May 27;110(11):2772-84; Kanellopoulou A, Riza E, Samoli E, Benetou V. Dietary supplement use after cancer diagnosis in relation to total mortality, cancer mortality and recurrence: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrition and Cancer. 2021;73(1):16-30; Thomson CA, Aragaki AK et al. Long-term effect of randomization to calcium and vitamin d supplementation on health in older women: postintervention follow-up of a randomized clinical trial. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2024 Mar 12.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Some studies suggest that diets richer in marine omega-3s found in fish, including EPA and DHA, lead to better outcomes. But the results are mixed — some found no clear benefit in survival or risk of cancer coming back.23Patterson RE, Flatt SW et al. Marine fatty acid intake is associated with breast cancer prognosis. Journal of Nutrition. 2011 Feb;141(2):201-6; Ghoreishi Z, Esfahani A et al. Omega-3 fatty acids are protective against paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy: a randomized double-blind placebo controlled trial. BMC Cancer. 2012 Aug 15;12:355; Osouli-Tabrizi S, Mehdizadeh A et al. The effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acids on health outcomes in women with breast cancer: A systematic review. Food Science & Nutrition. 2023 May 22;11(8):4355-4371; Douglas CM, Newell M et al. Exploratory outcomes of the DHA WIN randomized controlled trial: Supplementing women with docosahexaenoic acid did not reduce the impact of neoadjuvant breast cancer chemotherapy on quality of life or exercise behaviour. PLoS One. 2025 May 2;20(5):e0322178.
- Melatonin: This chemical, naturally made by your body, promotes sleep onset. Small clinical trials suggest taking melatonin at bedtime can help sleep, mood, and cognition. A smaller dose showed no benefit in one trial.24Palmer ACS, Zortea M et al. Clinical impact of melatonin on breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy; effects on cognition, sleep and depressive symptoms: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. PLoS One. 2020 Apr 17;15(4):e0231379; Hansen MV, Andersen LT et al. Effect of melatonin on depressive symptoms and anxiety in patients undergoing breast cancer surgery: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment. 2014 Jun;145(3):683-95; Chen WY, Giobbie-Hurder A et al. A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of melatonin on breast cancer survivors: impact on sleep, mood, and hot flashes. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment. 2014;145(2):381-388.
- EGCG: Early trials of this natural antioxidant found in green tea show positive effects on breast cancer markers. It may also protect the skin during radiation treatments. Some studies suggest a small reduction in the risk of cancer coming back, depending on the cancer’s stage.25Crew KD, Ho KA et al. Effects of a green tea extract, Polyphenon E, on systemic biomarkers of growth factor signalling in women with hormone receptor-negative breast cancer. Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics. 2015 Jun;28(3):272-82; Zhao H, Zhu W et al. Efficacy of epigallocatechin-3-gallate in preventing dermatitis in patients with breast cancer receiving postoperative radiotherapy: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 2 randomized clinical trial. JAMA Dermatology. 2022 Jul 1;158(7):779-786; Gianfredi V, Nucci D et al. Green tea consumption and risk of breast cancer and recurrence—a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. Nutrients. 2018 Dec 3;10(12):1886; Yu SS, Spicer DV et al. Biological effects of green tea capsule supplementation in pre-surgery postmenopausal breast cancer patients. Frontiers in Oncology. 2013 Dec 13;3:298.
- Milk thistle (silymarin): Small studies suggest this supplement may make certain cancer drugs less toxic to the liver. It may also reduce irritation from radiation when put on the skin.26Moezian GSA, Javadinia SA et al. Oral silymarin formulation efficacy in management of AC-T protocol induced hepatotoxicity in breast cancer patients: a randomized, triple blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Oncology Pharmacy Practice. 2022 Jun;28(4):827-835; Becker-Schiebe M, Mengs U, Schaefer M, Bulitta M, Hoffmann W. Topical use of a silymarin-based preparation to prevent radiodermatitis : results of a prospective study in breast cancer patients. Strahlentherapie Und Onkologie. 2011 Aug;187(8):485-91; Que S, Ma X, Yang T, He J. Evaluation of the effect of herbal agents as management of radiodermatitis in breast cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Japan Journal of Nursing Science. 2024 Jan;21(1):e12559.
- Turkey tail mushroom: Small clinical trials suggest possible survival benefits from Turkey Tail mushroom taken during chemotherapy, but the findings are weak.27Eliza WL, Fai CK, Chung LP. Efficacy of Yun Zhi (Coriolus versicolor) on survival in cancer patients: systematic review and meta-analysis. Recent Patents on Inflammation & Allergy Drug Discovery. 2012 Jan;6(1):78-87.
- Probiotics and synbiotics: These supplements aim to encourage healthy gut bacteria. Early studies in people with breast cancer suggest possible relief of fatigue and bowel changes from chemotherapy. Studies also suggested it can lower inflammation. Generally, the data for their benefits is weak.28Khazaei Y, Basi A et al. The effects of synbiotics supplementation on reducing chemotherapy-induced side effects in women with breast cancer: a randomized placebo-controlled double-blind clinical trial. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies. 2023 Sep 26;23(1):339; Thu MS, Ondee T et al. Effect of Probiotics in Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Biology (Basel). 2023 Feb 9;12(2):280.
- Ginger: Small trials of ginger supplements for breast cancer showed mixed results. These supplements may help with nausea and vomiting from cancer drugs. Some studies show less acute nausea when used with other drugs that treat nausea, while others do not.29Arslan M, Ozdemir L. Oral intake of ginger for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting among women with breast cancer. Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing. 2015 Oct;19(5):E92-7; Panahi Y, Saadat A et al. Effect of ginger on acute and delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: a pilot, randomized, open-label clinical trial. Integrative Cancer Therapies. 2012 Sep;11(3):204-11; Greenlee H, DuPont-Reyes MJ et al. Clinical practice guidelines on the evidence-based use of integrative therapies during and after breast cancer treatment. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. 2017 May 6;67(3):194-232.
- Curcumin and turmeric: One trial showed that oral turmeric lowered skin irritation after radiation.30Ryan JL, Heckler CE et al. Curcumin for radiation dermatitis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial of thirty breast cancer patients. Radiation Research. 2013 Jul;180(1):34-43.
Always talk with your cancer care team and experts in integrative cancer care before starting any supplement. They can help you choose what’s right for your situation based on your blood work. They’ll help you avoid safety issues and drug interactions. An integrative or FABNO-certified naturopathic oncologist, or conventional oncologist who is knowledgeable about the integrative approach, can tailor options to you.
Complementary therapies
Other types of supportive care can improve quality of life, lower symptoms and side effects of cancer, and help you feel better. Talk to your doctor to add one of these therapies to your care plan.
- Acupuncture: This treatment uses fine needles on specific points of the body. Studies show it can ease hot flashes and joint pain from hormone therapy. It may also improve fatigue, sleep problems, pain, and nerve damage. It may help you feel better emotionally during cancer care. Leading oncology guidelines endorse acupuncture for multiple breast cancer–related symptoms.31Li H, Schlaeger JM et al. Acupuncture improves multiple treatment-related symptoms in breast cancer survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2021 Dec;27(12):1084-1097; D’Alessandro EG, da Silva AV et al. Acupuncture for climacteric-like symptoms in breast cancer improves sleep, mental and emotional health: a randomized trial. Medical Acupuncture. 2022 Feb 1;34(1):58-65; Johnston MF, Hays RD et al. Patient education integrated with acupuncture for relief of cancer-related fatigue randomized controlled feasibility study. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2011 Jun 25;11:49; Yuanqing P, Yong T et al. Acupuncture for hormone therapy-related side effects in breast cancer patients: a grade-assessed systematic review and updated meta-analysis. Integrative Cancer Therapies. 2020 Jan-Dec;19:1534735420940394.); Chien TJ, Liu CY, Fang CJ, Kuo CY. The efficacy of acupuncture in chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: systematic review and meta-analysis. Integrative Cancer Therapies. 2019 Jan-Dec;18:1534735419886662; Zhang J, Zhang Z et al. Acupuncture for cancer-related insomnia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Phytomedicine. 2022 Jul 20;102:154160; Greenlee H, DuPont-Reyes MJ et al. Clinical practice guidelines on the evidence-based use of integrative therapies during and after breast cancer treatment. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. 2017 May 6;67(3):194-232; Lyman GH, Greenlee H et al. Integrative therapies during and after breast cancer treatment: ASCO endorsement of the SIO clinical practice guideline. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2018 Sep 1;36(25):2647-2655; Mao JJ, Ismaila N et al. Integrative Medicine for Pain Management in Oncology: Society for Integrative Oncology-ASCO Guideline. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2022 Dec 1;40(34):3998-4024; Zhang J, Qin Z et al. Acupuncture for chemotherapy-associated insomnia in breast cancer patients: an assessor-participant blinded, randomized, sham-controlled trial. Breast Cancer Research. 2023 Apr 26;25(1):49; Bao T, Zhi WI et al. Electro-acupuncture versus battle field auricular acupuncture in breast cancer survivors with chronic musculoskeletal pain: subgroup analysis of a randomized clinical trial. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment. 2023 Nov;202(2):287-295.
- Massage therapy: Therapeutic massage can give short-term relief from anxiety, stress, pain, and breast-related symptoms. Some studies show it can lower anxiety and help you get better sleep after breast reconstruction. Clinical guidelines recommend massage for anxiety, mood disturbance, pain, and chronic pain.32Lee PL, Tam KW, Yeh ML, Wu WW. Acupoint stimulation, massage therapy and expressive writing for breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 2016;27:87-101; Dion LJ, Engen DJ et al. Massage therapy alone and in combination with meditation for breast cancer patients undergoing autologous tissue reconstruction: a randomized pilot study. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice. 2016;23:82-87; Shin ES, Seo KH et al. Massage with or without aromatherapy for symptom relief in people with cancer. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2016;(6):CD009873; Kashani F, Kashani P. The effect of massage therapy on the quality of sleep in breast cancer patients. Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research. 2014;19(2):113-118; Greenlee H, DuPont-Reyes MJ et al. Clinical practice guidelines on the evidence-based use of integrative therapies during and after breast cancer treatment. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. 2017 May 6;67(3):194-232; Lyman GH, Greenlee H et al. Integrative therapies during and after breast cancer treatment: ASCO endorsement of the SIO clinical practice guideline. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2018 Sep 1;36(25):2647-2655.
- Fasting or fasting-mimicking diets: Fasting and diets that mimic fasting are when you do not eat for periods of time. Early breast cancer studies suggest they can make chemotherapy easier to tolerate and improve your body’s response to it. They may reduce fatigue, nausea, blood-related side effects, help you sleep better and improve quality of life. One study linked fasting at least 13 hours overnight to a lower risk of cancer coming back. A small trial suggested better quality-of-life scores with fasting and increased movement.33de Groot S, Vreeswijk MP et al. The effects of short-term fasting on tolerance to (neo) adjuvant chemotherapy in HER2-negative breast cancer patients: a randomized pilot study. BMC Cancer. 2015;15:652; de Groot S, Lugtenberg RT et al. Fasting mimicking diet as an adjunct to neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer in the multicentre randomized phase 2 DIRECT trial. Nature Communications. 2020;11(1):3083; Lugtenberg RT, de Groot S et al; Dutch Breast Cancer Research Group (BOOG). Quality of life and illness perceptions in patients with breast cancer using a fasting mimicking diet as an adjunct to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in the phase 2 DIRECT (BOOG 2013-14) trial. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment. 2021 Feb;185(3):741-758; Marinac CR, Nelson SH et al. Prolonged nightly fasting and breast cancer prognosis. JAMA Oncology. 2016 Aug 1;2(8):1049-55; Gonzalo-Encabo P, Giobbie-Hurder A et al. Combined intermittent fasting and exercise intervention in patients with metastatic, hormone receptor-positive breast cancer (FastER): a pilot study. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment. 2025 Nov;214(2):171-180. Read about Fasting Mimicking Diets ›
This article shares therapies with evidence specific to breast cancer. Complementary therapies without breast cancer-specific studies may still be worth exploring. You can find them in our Supplements and Therapies Database.
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