Dietary Protein Intervention for Breast Cancer

This trial tests whether a short-term, reduced protein diet is manageable for people with certain types of breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy. It targets patients with stage II or III estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer, where cancer grows in response to estrogen. The trial aims to determine if these patients can adhere to this diet plan before and during chemotherapy cycles and before surgery. This trial may suit those diagnosed with ER+ breast cancer, preparing for chemotherapy, and willing to follow a specific diet during treatment days. As an unphased trial, it offers patients the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance dietary guidelines during cancer treatment.

Research has shown that reducing protein intake at specific times during chemotherapy is generally safe and can help lessen treatment side effects. Studies have found this diet plan to be both feasible and well-received by patients. It has eased some common chemotherapy side effects. No major reports of serious issues have emerged from this dietary change, making it a promising option for those undergoing breast cancer treatment.¹²³⁴⁵

Most treatments for breast cancer focus on chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation to target and destroy cancer cells. However, the Dietary Protein Intervention is unique because it involves adjusting dietary protein intake around chemotherapy and surgery. This approach aims to enhance the effectiveness of these treatments by potentially reducing side effects and improving recovery. Researchers are excited about this method because, unlike standard treatments, it explores how diet can play a role in cancer care, potentially offering a new, non-invasive way to support traditional therapies.

Research has shown that reducing protein intake might slow tumor growth and enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments. In one study, tumors shrank by 56% with reduced protein consumption. Another study found that dietary changes can lower inflammation markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), which are often linked to cancer progression. This trial will investigate an intermittent reduced dietary protein intervention, where participants will follow a reduced protein diet during specific periods around their chemotherapy cycles and before surgery. This diet is considered safe and may enhance chemotherapy effectiveness for breast cancer patients. These findings suggest that eating less protein could benefit those undergoing treatment for ER+ (estrogen receptor positive) and HER2- (human epidermal growth factor receptor negative) breast cancer.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰