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May 2024
7m 32s

How to Counter Chemotherapy Side Effects

DR. ERIC BERG
About this episode

One of the most common treatments for cancer is chemotherapy, which uses powerful drugs to target and kill cancer cells. Chemo can cause uncomfortable side effects such as nausea, fatigue, hair loss, and weakened immune function. Fortunately, there are ways to counter these side effects and support your body during chemo treatment.


Compounds found in plants have a range of health benefits, including cancer prevention. Five specific phytonutrients that have shown strong chemo-preventative factors are sulforaphane, resveratrol, quercetin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and allicin. They can be found in foods such as broccoli, grapes, green tea, and garlic.


Magnesium deficiency has also been linked to cachexia, a condition where the body loses tissue and becomes weak. This can be especially dangerous for cancer patients who are already struggling with weight loss and fatigue due to their illness.


Selenium plays a crucial role in immune function. If you are undergoing chemo or have cancer, you may want to supplement with 200 to 400 micrograms of selenium daily.


Intermittent fasting, prolonged fasting, and exercise are powerful tools in reducing chemo side effects.


Cold therapy, such as ice baths, has also been found to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation. Lastly, vitamin D has been shown to play a crucial role in strengthening the immune system. If you have cancer, it’s recommended that you take high doses of vitamin D, with a target level of at least 120 nanograms per milliliter of blood.


Remember to always consult with your doctor before making any changes to your diet or exercise routine while undergoing chemotherapy.


DATA:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science...

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1M2Qd...

https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.c...

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...

https://www.aicr.org/cancer-preventio...

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ahef...

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-hbL...

https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO....

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