The following presents an overview of current integrative medical approach to cancer treatment. The integrated approach to cancer consists of treatment involving chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery along therapies to strengthen and heal the body and mind such as diet, supplements, exercise, meditation, guided imagery, prayer and others. Traditional therapy works by removing and/or killing cancer cells, frequently with effects on the normal cells of the body. Integrative approaches combine these traditional approaches with therapies to nourish and strengthen the body, mind, and spirit; it is not an alternative to traditional approaches.

 

1. Diet

1. Follow the recommendations for Diet to Reduce Inflammation.
2. Specific foods that have shown some anti-cancer benefits include green tea, mushrooms, tree nuts, pomegranates, turmeric, rosemary, ginger, garlic, onions, purple grapes, tomatoes(also ketchup and tomato sauce, paste, juice, and soup), and cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, brussel sprouts).
3. Avoid foods that are associated with increased cancer risks. These include foods containing nitrites (hot dogs, luncheon meats), foods that have been charred or burned, pickled and smoked foods, and alcohol(more than one drink daily).
4. Increased fiber will help maintain normal stool transit time to minimize or prevent diarrhea and constipation.

2. Supplements

1. Daily multivitamin with minerals
2. Omega 3 oils (fish oils) have an anti-inflammatory effect and DHA is important in nerve function and repair.
3. Additional vitamin C and E supplementation is controversial, but should probably be avoided during active cancer treatment.
4. L-carnitine and alpha lipoic acid improve energy function in cells and reduce free radicals, especially in nervous tissues. Like antioxidants, they should probably be avoided during active cancer treatment.
5. Coenzyme Q-10 has shown some benefits in some studies.
6. Vitamin D deficiency has been shown to increase the risk for several types of cancer. A vitamin D level should be checked and additional vitamin D above the amount in a multiple vitamin may be necessary.
7. Supplements derived from beneficial foods above (mushrooms, garlic, ginger, turmeric, pomegranate juice, etc).
8. Astragalus and other traditional Chinese medicines.

3. Environmental factors

1. Avoid aggravating toxins including organophosphates (insecticides/pesticides), heavy metals, and various fumes and solvents found at home and work(paint, thinners, stains, gasoline, etc).
2. Avoid tobacco.
3. Avoid unnecessary radiation, including tanning parlors.

4. Exercise–regular exercise will strengthen the immune system and promote a sense of well being.

1. Regular aerobic exercise is important. Studies have shown lower recurrence rates for several types of cancer with exercise. Walking or swimming can probably be done by most patients and if symptoms don’t prevent it, dancing, gymnastics, running, bicycling, and other sports activities are good for treatment.
2. Exercises that improve flexibility (especially of the spine) are recommended. Yoga and tai-chi are excellent.
3. Resistance exercises(lifting weights) are important to prevent or minimize muscle wasting that can occur with cancer treatment.
4. Other modalities.
5. Yoga and meditation.
6. Guided imagery and hypnosis
7. Relaxation therapies, including traditional counseling, aroma therapy, art and music therapy, massage therapy, and healing touch and energy therapies.
8. Acupuncture
9. Prayer and faith healing

6. Specific medications

1. For nausea, ginger (500-1000mg of extract, or as a candied preparation) has proven benefit.
2. For depression, St John’s wort can be helpful. Check with your physician before using because of potential interactions with other medications.
3. For insomnia, valerian root is helpful. Warm chamomile tea can be taken with it.

Cancer treatment options vary considerably depending on the specific type of cancer and the extent of the cancer, as well as whether you interested in preventing a cancer(s) or have been diagnosed with cancer. For questions and concerns and more detailed information specific for you, please make an appointment with your health provider.