This is in response to the person who wondered about the safety of B17, or
apricot kernels and bf. I contacted a very good nutritionist/herbalist (who
is also knowledgeable about cancer treatments). This mother is afraid of
breast cancer due to family history.
    For one thing, "B17" is not a real B vitamin at all. It is absolutely
*not* safe during lactation, according to my friend. The mother should focus
on taking *foods* which are cancer preventive, such as soy and mushrooms like
shitake, reishi and miatake (very strong anti-cancer properties). She could
also read Susun Weed's book on breast health.
    An aside: I have another friend who has a rare form of cancer. She was
given "B17" prior to her most recent surgery. The surgeon was hesitant to
operate b/c the CAT scan showed possibly too much organ involvement. She was
told the "B17" would differentiate the cancer cells. Well, the surgeon
expressed his extreme surprise that it was so easy to find the cancer and
remove it. He felt he was 100% effective. So, "B17" may well have its uses
during treatment, but I know of no literature describing it as a preventative.
    Would the person who requested this info please let me know that you
received it or I will check the Archives?
Jennifer Tow, IBCLC, CT, USA

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