How to Lose Weight While on Tamoxifen

The drug tamoxifen has emerged as an important part of breast cancer treatment. It is used as both a primary and supplemental choice for treating breast tumors. Tamoxifen works against the estrogen that helps breast cancer thrive. Losing weight on tamoxifen may present a challenge due to the lethargy and depression that sometimes stems from use of this drug and chemotherapy for breast cancer.

Step 1

Try to lose the mindset that tamoxifen is responsible for the weight gain. There is a distinct possibility that any weight gained could be due to the chemotherapy preceding the tamoxifen. Placebo testing has not demonstrated that tamoxifen causes weight gain.

Step 2

Set realistic goals. Discuss weight loss with an oncologist and ask about healthy weights for your body type and shape. Set a start date for the new weight loss and diet plan -- but don't get wrapped up in semantics. Think of it as the start to a new, healthier you.

Step 3

Control daily caloric intake. MayoClinic.com suggests that calorie counting is an effective weight-loss strategy. You have to eat fewer calories to lose weight. The oncologist should be able to provide a healthy daily calorie goal for you -- stick to it.

Step 4

Get out to the garden, mow the lawn or take a brisk walk. Exercise is a vital part of any weight-loss strategy. If the tamoxifen is causing fatigue, which is a common side effect, exercise may combat it. Start off with 10 minutes of exercise three times a day -- this will add up to the recommended 150 minutes of exercise weekly.