Which natural cancer fighting supplements can be taken during chemotherapy?

A fellow caregiver asked...

Which natural cancer fighting supplements can be taken during chemotherapy?

Expert Answer

Isaac Eliaz, MD is a respected author, lecturer, researcher, product formulator, and clinical practitioner. He has been a pioneer in the field of integrative medicine since the early 1980s. Eliaz is a frequent guest lecturer on integrative medical approaches to health, immune enhancement, and cancer prevention and treatment. For more information, visit www.dreliaz.org.

There are a number of nutrients, botanicals and supplements that can be successfully used during chemotherapy, to enhance the benefits and help to lessen side effects. In my clinical practice, my top recommendation for patients undergoing chemotherapy is Modified Citrus Pectin. It has also been shown to help alleviate some of the side effects of chemotherapy, and is believed to enhance the treatment in many cases. If the individual undergoing chemotherapy is experiencing nausea and stomach distress in the days following the chemotherapy treatment, the Modified Citrus Pectin can be halted for those periods, but it is usually well tolerated and can have a very beneficial effect. Other specialized formulas can be used concurrently as well. Consult with an integrative physician before taking any supplements during chemotherapy.