Here are more details on the supplements I am recommending, with special reference to why they should be part of a program of healing for chemotherapy patients.
Alpha Lipoic Acid—Alpha lipoic acid is an antioxidant that is made by the body and is found in every cell. Other antioxidants work only in water (such as vitamin C) or fatty tissues (such as vitamin E), but alpha lipoic acid is both fatand watersoluble, which means it can work throughout the body. Antioxidants are used up as they attack free radicals, but research is showing that alpha lipoic acid may help regenerate these other antioxidants and make them active again. (umm.edu)
Biotin—Biotin, a super metabolizer, processes carbohydrates, protein, and fat quickly. Especially good for sluggish systems brought on by some of the side effects of chemo, such as fatigue and constipation.
C0Q10—A highly effective antioxidant that boosts the immune system and protects heart function.
Multi-Vitamin and Mineral—A comprehensive
multi-vitamin and mineral as a general supplemental support. This is especially important given the ups and downs of appetite during chemo.
Niacin (Vitamin B3)—Flush-free niacin is a strong antioxidant and detoxifier, involved in over 50 metabolic processes that turn carbohydrates into energy.
Omega 3/Fish Oil—Omega 3 is an essential fatty acid that is a natural anti-inflammatory and helps with nervous system function. DHA, an omega 3 fatty acid found in fish oils, has been shown to reduce the size of tumors and enhance the positive effects of the chemotherapy drug cisplatin, while limiting its harmful side effects.
Panax Ginseng—A highly effective stimulant especially for mental activity and a general tonic. Specifically, ginseng can help to lessen the effects of “chemo brain,” improving thinking and memory functions.
Follow safety precautions on the package and use responsibly, especially if you have a history of endocrine disorders or high blood pressure. (livestrong.com)
Pancreatin—A group of enzymes that break down protein thus helping to irradicate cancer. This is described more fully on the next page.
Selenium—Selenium works with the body’s natural antioxidant, glutathione. It also works in tandem with Vitamin E to protect the outer walls of cells.
Spirulina—Spirulina is a blue-green algae that grows in warm, watery and highly alkaline environments. It comes in powdered form, also in capsules and tablets. Spirulina is essentially chlorophyll, the green pigment in plants, a potent detoxifier and immune system booster.
Vitamin B Complex—The B vitamins (except Bi, thiamine, which can speed cell division) are important especially to help with stress and to keep energy up.
Vitamin C—Vitamin C is water-soluble, which means that it is not stored in the body, and passes through rather quickly. It comes as powder, crystals, or capsules. A great antioxidant.
Vitamin D3—This can slow the growth of cancer cells and boosts immunity.
Vitamin E—Studies have shown that this vital antioxidant can thwart the growth of cancer cells, while at the same time boosting immunity.
Zinc—Zinc, an antioxidant mineral, helps build and repair cells and tissues, and enhances immunity (which is why we take zinc at the first sign of a cold).
Source: The Chemotherapy Diet