5. Strengthen your immune system
Immune System: A complex network of cells, tissues, organs, and the substances they make that helps the body fight infections and other diseases. The immune system includes white blood cells and organs and tissues of the lymph system, such as the thymus, spleen, tonsils, lymph nodes, lymph vessels, and bone marrow – National Cancer Institute.
Study published in Future Oncology says: Chemo drugs can damage healthy immune cells… the killing of immune cells can also enhance tumor growth.
There are a number of ways to boost your immune system, including:
Proper Sleep
Study published in Pflugers Archiv says: Sleep and the circadian system exert a strong regulatory influence on immune functions. Prolonged sleep curtailment produces pro-inflammatory cytokines, best described as chronic low-grade inflammation, and also produce immunodeficiency, which both have detrimental effects on health.
Enzymatically Modified Rice Bran
Study published in Integrative Cancer Therapies says: There is sufficient evidence suggesting MGN-3 [rice bran extract] to be an effective immunomodulator that can complement conventional cancer treatment. See MGN-3 page.
Laughter
Study published in Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine says: Findings from this study support that the act of laughing is correlated to changes in stress and immune function following exposure to a humor stimulus. Laughing can apparently reduce stress and improve NK [natural killer] cell activity, at least temporarily. As low NK cell activity is linked to decreased disease resistance and increased morbidity in persons with cancer and HIV disease, the authors conclude that laughter may be a useful cognitive-behavioral intervention for use in these patients.
Healthy Sex
This study published in Neuroimmunomodulation concluded: …this study demonstrates for the first time that sexual activity and orgasm induce transient increases in the circulation of lymphocyte subpopulations, in particular NK [natural killer] cell numbers, in man.
Meditation
Study published in Neuroscience says: Kiecolt-Glaser discovered that the elderly in a retirement home who practised a relaxation technique, showed a significant increase in their immune defences against viruses and tumors (Kiecolt-Glaser et al., 1985); and in another study, he pointed out how medical students who used such techniques during examination preparation, a source of stress, showed higher levels of T-helper cell antibodies which fight infectious diseases (Kiecolt-Glaser et al., 1986).
Daily Exercise
Study published in Oncology says: NK [natural killer] cell number significantly increases following a single bout of exercise… Exercise is a pleiotropic strategy that may be a promising candidate therapy for the treatment of cancer. …The evidence reviewed in this paper suggests that exercise has immunomodulatory effects that could alter multiple critical phases of immune system–tumor cross-talk in both tumor initiation and progression
Study: In this systematic review, we found that Natural Killer cytotoxic activity increased after exercise in cancer patients…
Eat a Good Diet
Study published in Journal of Translational Medicine says: …nutritional supplementation with arginine, omega-3 fatty acids and nucleotides results in a marked improvement of immune functions in cancer patients undergoing surgery and a reduction in infectious complications, hospital stay and co-morbidities
Probiotics
Study published in International Journal of Molecular and Cellular Medicine says: Probiotic bacteria have recently become the focus of research because of their anti-cancer properties. In addition, they have been shown to change expression of different genes participating in cell death and apoptosis, invasion and metastasis, cancer stem cell maintenance as well as cell cycle control.
Betternutrition.comlists the top Probiotic Foods as Yogurt and kefir (dairy- or plant-based), Sauerkraut, Kimchi, Kvass (a fermented beet drink), Natto, Miso, Kombucha, Raw cheese from goat’s or sheep’s milk.
Study published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition states: Consumption of probiotic organisms in the form of fermented milk or yogurt has been shown to increase cellular immunity in elderly subjects and children. It is well established that the intestinal microflora affects the development and functioning of the immune system, so it is reasonable to conclude that intestinal microflora could be modulated by using probiotic organisms, which could provide means of improving the immune status of healthy and unhealthy individuals.
Study published in Journal of Medicinal Food states: Health functionality of kimchi, based upon our research and that of other, includes anticancer, … immune promotion, and skin health promotion.
Natural vitamin supplements etc
See a comprehensive list on Immune boosters page.
6. Reduce nausea and vomiting
A number of drugs are used to treat nausea, but other, less toxic therapies have also been proven to help patients. These include:
Cannabinoids
Study published in British Journal of Pharmacology says: Considerable evidence demonstrates that manipulation of the endocannabinoid system regulates nausea and vomiting in humans and other animals. The anti-emetic effect of cannabinoids has been shown across a wide variety of animals that are capable of vomiting in response to a toxic challenge.
Although chemotherapy-induced vomiting is well controlled in most patients by conventionally available drugs, nausea (acute, delayed and anticipatory) continues to be a challenge. Nausea is often reported as more distressing than vomiting, because it is a continuous sensation. Indeed, this distressing symptom of chemotherapy treatment (even when vomiting is pharmacologically controlled) can become so severe that as many as 20% of patients discontinue the treatment.
Both preclinical and human clinical research suggests that cannabinoid compounds may have promise in treating nausea in chemotherapy patients.
Ginger Supplements
Study of 576 patients published in Supportive Care in Cancer concluded: Ginger supplementation at daily dose of 0.5g-1.0g significantly aids in reduction of the severity of acute chemotherapy-induced nausea in adult cancer patients.
Study published in The Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention says: According to the findings of this study, it should be declared that taking ginger capsules (1 g/day) might relieve Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting safely.
According to this review this is the best treatment (along with massage).
Study published in Chemotherapy Research and Practice says: This plant induces acceptable effects on the reduction of Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. In the end, based on the results of this study, it can be generally concluded that Zingiber officinale (in form of ginger capsule) is the best option among antinausea medications to Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
Hypnosis
Study: Evidence has shown that hypnosis can effectively treat anticipatory Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting and early research indicates that alternative treatments such as acupuncture and massage may also be beneficial in prevention of Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
Accupressure
Study published by Oncology Nursing Society states: With delayed nausea and vomiting, the acupressure group had a statistically significant reduction in the amount of vomiting and the intensity of nausea over time when compared with the placebo and usual-care groups.
Massage and Inhalation Essential Oils (Aromatherapy)
Study published in Cancer Nursing conluded: Nausea severity was significantly lower in the massage and inhalation aromatherapy groups than in the control group. Nausea and retching incidence was reduced in the aromatherapy groups compared with that in the control group.
Taurine
Study of 40 patients published in Academia says: The present study successfully demonstrated that taurine can decrease the incidence of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting and attenuate chemotherapy-induced taste and smell impairment and fatigue in ALL [acute lymphoblastic leukemia] patients during their maintenance chemotherapy.
Other:
Avoid spicy or acidic foods such as oranges, lemons, and tomatoes. Avoid greasy foods.
Avoid all food additives, especially MSG (all forms), aspartame and carrageenan.
Drink a mixture of vegetables including: broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, celery, Chinese cabbage, kale, parsley, purple cabbage, tomatoes, turnip greens.
7. Avoid dangerous infections
White blood cells (WBCs) fight infections from bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens (organisms that cause infection). A low white blood cell count is one of the more serious side effects of chemotherapy – MedlinePlus
Despite advances in oncology care, infections from both community and healthcare settings remain a major cause of hospitalization and death among patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy. Neutropenia (low white blood cell count) is a common and potentially dangerous side effect in patients receiving chemotherapy treatments and may lead to higher risk of infection. Preventing infection during treatment can result in significant decreases in morbidity and mortality for patients with cancer. (read study)
Sepsis
SEPSIS is a complication caused by the body’s overwhelming and life-threatening response to infection which can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. For a person with cancer, any infection that is anywhere in your body can lead to sepsis – Center for Disease Control (CDC).
Neutropenic sepsis is a life-threatening side-effect of chemotherapy—patients are still dying from this complication of treatment, and these deaths are largely preventable…… Early intervention with intravenous antibiotics is critical to improve outcomes… (read study)
What are the signs and symptoms of an infection?
Watch for signs of an infection, such as:
•Fever, chills or sweats
•Redness, soreness, or swelling in any area, including surgical wounds and ports
•Diarrhea and/or vomiting
•Sore throat, cough or nasal congestion
•New sore in the mouth
•Shortness of breath
•Stiff neck
•Unusual vaginal discharge or irritation
•New onset of pain
•Changes in skin, urination, or mental status
What are the signs and symptoms of sepsis?
Sepsis is a bad outcome from an infection. There is no single sign or symptom of sepsis. It is, rather, a combination of symptoms.
How can I reduce my risk for infection?
Hand washing is the number one way to prevent infections. This should include you, all members of your household, your doctors, nurses and anyone that comes around you. Don’t be afraid to ask people to wash their hands. Washing your hands with soap and water is the most effective, but it’s OK to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
You should wash your hands:
- Before, during, and after cooking food
- Before you eat
- After going to the bathroom
- After changing diapers or helping a child to use the bathroom
- After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
- After touching your pet or cleaning up after your pet
- After touching trash
- Before and after treating a cut or wound or caring for your catheter, port, or other access device.
You should also do the following:
- Protect your skin from scrapes and cuts
- Maintain good oral and body hygiene practices
- Practice proper wound care
- Use disinfectants to keep your household surfaces free of germs
- Avoid situations where you might come into close contact with people who may be sick
- Use disinfectants to keep your household surfaces free of germs
- Protect your skin from direct contact with pet bodily waste (urine or feces)
8. Reduce Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN)
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is one of the most frequent side effects caused by antineoplastic agents, with a prevalence from 19% to over 85%. (CIPN) symptoms vary from patient to patient, but in general, side effects include:
• feeling of numbness or “pins and needles” in your hands and feet;
• ringing in your ears or loss of hearing;
• changes in vision;
• sudden, stabbing pains in your hands or feet;
• muscle weakness or cramps; The following can help:
Ice cap, frozen socks and gloves
This study of 36 patients published in The Journal of the National Cancer Institute says: Breast cancer patients treated weekly with paclitaxel (80 mg/m2 for one hour) wore frozen gloves and socks on the dominant side for 90 minutes, including the entire duration of drug infusion. The researchers found that the hands and feet that wore the frozen gloves and socks had less loss of sensitivity to touch and temperature than the hands and feet that didn’t wear the frozen garments:
- 27.8% of the hands that wore the frozen gloves lost some sensitivity to touch
- 80.6% of the hands that didn’t wear the frozen gloves lost some sensitivity to touch
- 25.0% of the feet that wore the frozen socks lost some sensitivity to touch
- 63.9% of the feet that didn’t wear the frozen socks lost some sensitivity to touch
- 8.8% of the hands that wore the frozen gloves lost some sensitivity to warmth
- 32.4% of the hands that didn’t wear the frozen gloves lost some sensitivity to warmth
- 33.4% of the feet that wore the frozen socks lost some sensitivity to warmth
- 57.6% of the feet that didn’t wear the frozen socks lost some sensitivity to warmth
Omega-3 fatty acids
Study of 57 breast cancer patients published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology says: Omega-3 fatty acids may be an efficient neuroprotective supplement for prophylaxis against PIPN. They were able to reduce the incidence of PIPN [paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy] in these study patients. Patients with breast cancer have a longer disease free survival rate with the aid of therapeutical agents. Finding a way to solve the disabling effects of PIPN would significantly improve the quality of life of these cancer patients.
Ginkgo Biloba
Study Review (17 patients) published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine says: Marshall et al. investigated retrospectively 17 patients with colorectal cancer who received oxaliplatin along with Ginkgo biloba…The researchers found that 11 of the 17 patients developed a grade 1 peripheral neuropathy (PN) after the first cycle of oxaliplatin. Five of six patients who received Ginkgo biloba after the second cycle of oxaliplatin reported decreased intensity and duration of sensory PN. No Ginkgo biloba related side effects have been observed. The data suggested that Ginkgo biloba extract appears to attenuate the intensity and duration of acute dysesthesias caused by oxaliplatin and may yield synergistic antitumor activity.
Sweet bee venom
Bee venom is made by bees. This is the poison that makes bee stings painful. Bee venom is sometimes used to make medicine.
Study Review (11 patients using Sweet Bee Venom) published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine says: A total of 11 eligible consecutive CIPN patients were treated for 3 weeks and observed for another 3 weeks. A significant intraindividual improvement was found for pain and neuropathy scales.
Chai Hu Long Gu Mu Li Wan
Study Review (48 patients) published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine says: Chinese randomized trial in which 48 patients with ovarian cancer were examined parallel to chemotherapy with placitaxel. They were divided into a treatment group with paclitaxel alone and a treatment group with paclitaxel plus a combination of oral Chinese herbal decoction treatment and external washing of the feet with Chinese herbs… The incidence of CIPN was almost half as high in the patients treated additionally with Chinese herbs as evaluated by clinical testing.
Goshajinkigan
Study of 29 patients published in Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine says: In this study, we investigated the efficacy of Goshajinkigan, a traditional Japanese herbal medicine, for TC [Paclitaxel/carboplatin chemotherapy] therapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. The subjects included in our study were patients with ovarian or endometrial cancer who underwent TC therapy and developed peripheral neuropathy. The patients were randomly divided into Group A, comprising of 14 patients (vitamin B12 treatment), and Group B, comprising of 15 patients (vitamin B12 + Goshajinkigan treatment)…grade 3 neurotoxicity developed in 2 patients (14.3%) after 6 weeks of administration in Group A, whereas no neurotoxicity was observed in Group B… This suggests that Goshajinkigan inhibits the progression of peripheral neuropathy.
Study of 45 patients published in International Journal of Clinical Oncology says:45 patients treated with modified FOLFOX6 for non-resectable or recurrent colorectal cancer participated in the study. Twenty-two patients (Goshajinkigan group) received oral administration of 7.5 g/day of Goshajinkigan every day during mFOLFOX6 therapy and 23 patients (control group) did not receive Goshajinkigan. The incidence of grade 3 peripheral neuropathy in the Goshajinkigan group was significantly lower than in the control group. The incidence of grade 3 peripheral neuropathy after 10 courses was 0% in the Goshajinkigan group and 12% in the control group, and after 20 courses was 33% in the Goshajinkigan group and 75% in the control group. The percentage of grade 2 and 3 peripheral neuropathy in the Goshajinkigan group was lower than that in the control group. There were no differences in adverse effects between the two groups except for peripheral neuropathy and influence on tumor response.
Study of 82 patients says: Paclitaxel (PTX) is frequently used for a chemotherapy of breast cancer and gynecologic cancer. We have also found that Gosya-jinki-gan was possibly effective for the treatment and the prevention of peripheral neuropathy. Additionally Gosya-jinki-gan might be more effective for peripheral neuropathy when it is administered from the beginning of chemotherapy including Paclitaxel.
Grains and Citrus Fruits
Study of 1468 patients published in Breast Cancer Research says: 1460 participants completed the baseline questionnaire including foods usually eaten over the last 12 months prior to cancer diagnosis, and 1234 patients completed the 6-month follow-up regarding diet during treatment…we observed significant inverse associations between neuropathy and consumption of grains, and marginally significant positive associations with consumption of citrus fruits.
Vitamin E
Meta-Analysis involving 555 patients: Available data included in this meta-analysis showed that vitamin E supplementation can confer modest improvement in the prevention of CIPN [chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy].
Meta-Analysis (319 patients) published in International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research says: …vitamin E supplementation had a significant effect on CIPN prevention…Subgroup analysis by chemotherapeutic agent type was only available for cisplatin and showed that vitamin E supplementation significantly reduced the incidence of CIPN.
Study of 27 patients published in Journal of Clinical Oncology says:
The severity of neurotoxicity, measured with a comprehensive neurotoxicity score based on clinical and neurophysiological parameters, was significantly lower in patients who were supplemented with vitamin E than in patients who were not supplemented with vitamin E.
Capsaicin patch
Study of 16 patients published in Journal of Pain Research says:In this study, CIPN patients reported significant pain reduction following a single 30 min treatment with the capsaicin 8% patch – in spontaneous pain, touch-evoked pain and cold-evoked pain… Capsaicin 8% patch provides significant pain relief in CIPN, and may lead to nerve regeneration and restoration of sensory nerve fibers ie, disease modification.
Magnesium
Study of 196 colorectal cancer patients published in Nutrients says: Chronic CIPN was assessed 12 months after diagnosis using the quality of life questionnaire CIPN20…CIPN was reported by 160 (82%) patients. Magnesium intake during chemotherapy was statistically significantly associated with lower prevalence of CIPN…Furthermore, higher dietary intake of magnesium during and after chemotherapy was associated with less severe CIPN.
N- acetylcysteine
Study of 14 stage III colon cancer patients published in Supportive Care in Cancer says: We concluded that oral N-acetylcysteine reduces the incidence of oxaliplatin induced neuropathy in colon cancer patients receiving oxaliplatin-based adjuvant chemotherapy.
Alpha-lipoic acid
Study: Alpha-lipoic acid may represent a promising adjuvant therapy to attenuate paclitaxel-associated neuropathy and doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in women with breast cancer.