Using Natural Therapy for Chemotherapy Side Effects

Using Natural Therapy for Chemotherapy Side Effects
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The Effects of Chemo

Drugs and radiation therapy pose potential health risks to the body, and almost inevitably cause negative side effects. While each cancer patient will react differently to chemotherapy, there is some level of suffering inherent to the treatment. Using a natural therapy for chemotherapy side effects will not only bring relief, but it will enhance overall well-being, helping the body face the cancer in the first place. By minimizing pain, easing anxiety, and offering nutritional support, alternative remedies make the body and mind more capable of fighting the disease. They also improve quality of life.

Common side effects of chemotherapy include:

  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Anxiety
  • Pain
  • Lowered immune defenses
  • Weight-loss
  • Increased risk of heart disease
  • Fatigue
  • Memory changes
  • Hair loss
  • Swelling

Nutritional Therapy

Adequate nutrition is so important while going through treatment. The body needs plenty of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, and antioxidants to heal and sustain proper functioning. Diet and nutritional supplements will help with problems such as weight loss, constipation, nausea, fatigue, and an increased risk of infection.

During chemotherapy, eat a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, sea greens, grains, nuts, and legumes. Reduce, or eliminate processed, fatty, and sugary foods. There are specific dietary plans, such as the macrobiotic diet, which are believed to help the body fight cancer.

Useful supplements include:

  • Coenzyme Q10 for cellular oxygenation
  • Garlic to improve immune function
  • Kelp for minerals and to protect from radiation damage
  • Grape seed extract as a potent antioxidant
  • Chromium picolinate to help in cases of muscle atrophy

Herbal Therapy

Herbs are another effective natural therapy, to offer the body support and relieve symptoms.

  • Ginger helps with nausea and stimulates appetite
  • Peppermint will relieve nausea and vomiting
  • Milk thistle will offer the liver protection during treatment
  • Valerian will promote restful sleep
  • Astragalus will help the body fight infection

Acupuncture

Acupuncture can offer great relief for cancer patients, helping to unblock energy through accessing the flow of subtle energy. This promotes a state of balance and well-being. In Western medicine, it is accepted as an effective treatment for cancer patients dealing with pain, anxiety, and nausea.

Massage Therapy

Another natural therapy for chemotherapy side effects is massage. Regular, therapeutic massage can help the body relax, easing tension, stress, and anxiety. By improving circulation and promoting the elimination of accumulated toxins, it is also helpful for the immune system and skin problems.

Mind-Body Therapies

MInd-body medicine, such as guided imagery, meditation, and Reiki offer more subtle relief for the side effects of chemotherapy, yet over time they can greatly enhance feelings of well-being and energy levels.

All of these natural therapies offer dynamic health benefits. You do not have to choose one, or another. In fact, using multiple alternative treatments may yield powerful results. Always talk to your doctor about any form of medicine you choose in addition to chemotherapy.

References

Moynihan, Timothy. “Can chemotherapy increase the risk of heart disease?” (Mayo Clinic) https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/chemotherapy-side-effects/an01407

“Integrative Medicine for Chemotherapy Side Effects.” (AltMD) https://www.altmd.com/Articles/Integrative-Medicine-for-Chemotherapy-Side-Effects

Balch, Phyllis, CNC. “Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 4th Edition.” (The Penguin Group, 2006).

Photo Credit

photo by: dMap Travel Guide (CC/flickr) https://www.flickr.com/photos/dmap/3347103390/

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