Food as Integrative Medicine

Complementary medicine describes a range of medical therapies that are used as adjuncts to mainstream cancer care, such as natural products, acupuncture, and mind and body practices (eg, meditation). These therapies are generally inexpensive and benefit patients by enhancing well-being and controlling symptoms.

Integrative medicine is an evidence-based approach to holistic patient care, which utilizes all appropriate therapies to heal individuals and improve their physical, emotional, mental, environmental, spiritual and social health. In general, integrative medicine incorporates both conventional and complementary therapies.

Antioxidants can reduce the oxidation process associated with free radicals. Current literature suggests that free radicals cause cell damage and cancer through their interactions with DNA. Many foods and dietary supplements have antioxidant properties, including vitamin C and pycnogenol.

There is no strong evidence that a diet rich in antioxidants prevents cancer. Actually, high intake of specific antioxidants is associated with increased risk of cancer. Thus, intake of large quantities of antioxidants is not recommended to the general population.

While most studies have found no conclusive evidence, a recent randomized control trial published in the Journal of the American Medical Association demonstrated that multivitamins may lower cancer incidence in male cancer survivors. Though this study is promising, the role of a daily multivitamin in cancer prevention for the general population remains unclear.  

Most active ingredients used in chemotherapy drugs are derived from plants. They are selected only after extensive, rigorous clinical studies for safety and efficacy. Very few oral herbal supplements, including turmeric and medicinal mushrooms, have been studied, and their efficacy in humans and dosages is yet to be determined. More research is needed before these supplements can be recommended for general use.

The majority of herbs and dietary supplements have not been studied in combination with chemotherapy drugs. It is essential to understand the interactions between these products and the drugs, as there can be effects on drug absorption, metabolism and excretion, among other factors. Many oncologists recommend their patients to avoid frequent consumption of these products in large quantities during therapy.

However, there are a few well-researched herbs and dietary supplements that can be safely used as functional ingredients to alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy. Please see below our listed databases to read about specific herbs and dietary supplements.