My Mom’s Cancer (Part I)

Diet, Lifestyle, Herbs & Supplements for Cancer Support

This year, my mom’s slow-growing lymphoma doubled in size. She was rushed through a series of tests so she could participate in a drug trial intended to move Rituximab, a monoclonal antibody medication developed by IDEC Pharmaceuticals (currently priced at $40,000 per month), to the next level of FDA approval. As it turned out, she was randomly placed in the control group to receive chemotherapy, the standard of care for her type of cancer, rather than the new drug. My mom asked me for some easy, natural tweaks to her daily routines that would help her heal her cancer alongside this treatment without interfering in the results of the drug study.

I usually work with clients who are striving to reduce their medications or recover without medical interventions. However, I saw this as an opportunity to provide valuable information about the nature of cancer and how the body can heal itself using natural approaches. And, of course, it’s my mom, so I wanted to do everything I could to help her.

In this two-part series, I’ll first explore simple yet impactful diet and lifestyle changes that support the body’s healing processes. In the next article, I’ll delve into the incredible role of the mind as a powerful healing tool. You’ll understand why my mom’s decision to participate in this drug trial was the right choice for her unique situation.

Cancer is a Lifestyle Disease

Lifestyle diseases are largely preventable with the adoption of proper diet, regular exercise, quality sleep, stress management, and living in a clean environment. Cancer is one such preventable chronic condition, alongside heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, COPD, and autoimmune disorders. While genetics can predispose individuals to certain conditions, it is lifestyle factors that activate these genes and cause disease to manifest (Minich, 2022). Conversely, a healthy lifestyle has the potential to reverse these effects.

That said, we must avoid blaming individuals for their illnesses. Many of us grow up in systems that normalize processed, nutrient-poor foods, sedentary jobs, exposure to toxins, and chronically high stress. Breaking these patterns requires learning, patience, and a commitment to transformation. Below are actionable lifestyle changes anyone can begin implementing to take charge of their health.

Intermittent Fasting Fights Cancer

Intermittent fasting and fasting-mimicking diets have gained significant attention for their transformative effects on metabolism and their role in cancer therapy. These approaches help shift the body into a state of ketosis, where fat rather than glucose is the primary energy source, thereby starving cancer cells that rely entirely on glucose for energy (Vernieri, 2022). When used alongside mainstream cancer treatments, intermittent fasting enhances the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation by reducing the side effects and increasing cancer cells' sensitivity to these treatments (Vernieri, 2022). In alternative medicine protocols, intermittent fasting supports detoxification and improves immune system function.

For my mom, who is also managing diabetes, the idea of intermittent fasting intrigues her, though she’s hesitant to commit fully to it. "It sounds simple, but I’m not sure I could handle skipping meals," she admitted. Fasting has been shown to stabilize blood sugar levels and, in some cases, even reverse type 2 diabetes (Fung, 2016). While she hasn’t tried it yet, she’s open to learning more and exploring the possibility with her healthcare team. Of course, patients with diabetes, cancer, or other serious health conditions should always consult an experienced health practitioner who understands fasting to ensure it is done safely and effectively.

Drink Plenty of Water

Clean water is essential for optimal health. It aids immune function, transports nutrients, and flushes out toxins. For someone like my mom, who has battled diabetes for decades, hydration also requires balancing electrolytes like sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Elevated blood sugar can lead to excessive urination, which depletes these vital minerals and causes issues like muscle cramping.

As part of her chemotherapy protocol, Prednisone was administered intravenously to mitigate immune reactions caused by rapidly dying cells. This medication spiked her blood sugar levels dramatically—a side effect the medical team did not initially address. After stabilizing her blood sugar with insulin, she increased her water and electrolyte intake to combat dehydration and cramping. She’s now keeping careful track of her water and electrolyte consumption to prevent further side effects like this. “I don’t want to go through THAT again!” she said.

Eat Foods that Heal Cancer

A diet rich in fresh, whole, organically grown plant and animal foods is fundamental for immune health. Avoiding pesticides, herbicides, and chemical additives is equally important since many of these substances have carcinogenic effects. Research suggests that dietary patterns emphasizing nutrient-dense, unprocessed foods significantly improve overall health and boost the body’s ability to fight diseases, including cancer (Yance, 1999).

Key Cancer-Fighting Foods:

• Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts are rich in compounds like indoles and sulforaphane, which have been extensively studied for their tumor-inhibiting properties. Broccoli sprouts, in particular, contain the highest concentration of sulforaphane. Lightly cook cruciferous vegetables to preserve their cancer-fighting potency while avoiding goitrogens that can affect thyroid function (Yance, 1999).
• Leafy greens and other vegetables: The more vegetables we eat, the healthier we are. If you make only one change to your diet, eating more leafy greens and other vegetables would be the most powerful improvement you could make (Minich, 2022).
• Mushrooms: Shiitake, reishi, maitake, and other medicinal mushrooms contain beta-glucans that support the immune system. Shiitake mushrooms, specifically, have been shown to enhance natural killer (NK) cell activity, aiding the body's ability to target and destroy cancer cells (Yance, 1999).
• Herbs and Spices: Culinary herbs like turmeric, rosemary, basil, oregano, and ginger have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is particularly well-documented for its role in inducing cancer cell apoptosis and reducing tumor angiogenesis (Yance, 1999).
• Sea Vegetables: Seaweeds such as wakame, kelp, and bladderwrack offer a wealth of trace minerals and compounds like fucoidan, which has been linked to anti-tumor activity. Seaweed also supports detoxification by binding to heavy metals and radioactive elements, aiding their excretion (Yance, 1999).
• Healthy Fats: Incorporating anti-inflammatory fats, such as extra virgin olive oil and virgin coconut oil, promotes cell membrane integrity and regulates inflammatory pathways. These oils have also been linked to reduced cancer risks in multiple studies (Markellos et al., 2022; Ramya et al., 2022).

My mom, who once believed all salads consisted solely of lettuce and tomatoes, has started experimenting with other fresh greens like parsley, kale, chard, and dandelion greens. With a playful grin, she calls it "sneaking them in" alongside her lettuce so she doesn’t notice them too much. "It’s my little trick to eat healthier without overwhelming myself," she said, embracing this small but significant step toward better nutrition.

Herbal Tea for Cancer

A well-chosen herbal tea blend can provide gentle yet effective support for the immune system and overall health during cancer treatment. Combining herbs with complementary properties creates a synergistic effect, enhancing their therapeutic potential. Here’s a gentle immune-boosting tea recipe designed for individuals undergoing cancer treatments:

Recipe for Immune-Boosting Herbal Tea:

1. Astragalus Root (1 tablespoon): Known for its ability to enhance the immune response, astragalus helps protect against the immunosuppressive effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
2. Violet Leaves and Flowers (1 tablespoon): These delicate botanicals are valued for their anti-inflammatory and antineoplastic properties, supporting the body in targeting abnormal cell growth.
3. Burdock Root (2 teaspoons): A powerful cleansing herb, burdock aids in detoxification and has been shown to exhibit antimutagenic effects.
4. Siberian Ginseng Root (1 tablespoon): This adaptogen helps the body manage stress and improve resilience to physical, emotional, and environmental stressors. It also provides support against radiation-induced damage.
5. Yellow Dock Root (1 teaspoon): Known for its gentle laxative effects, yellow dock aids in eliminating toxins from the liver and bloodstream. This herb can be omitted for individuals sensitive to its mild laxative properties.
6. Optional: Red Clover Blossoms (1 tablespoon): Red clover is rich in phytoestrogens and is particularly supportive for hormone-dependent cancers, such as breast and prostate cancers (Yance, 1999).

Preparation Instructions:

Combine the herbs in a quart jar and pour boiling water over the mixture until the jar is three-quarters full. Seal the jar with a tight-fitting lid and allow the tea to steep for several hours or overnight. Strain the tea and sip it throughout the day. For best results, drink the tea during the morning and early afternoon to avoid any potential sleep disturbances caused by adaptogens like Siberian ginseng.

Adding turmeric powder to the tea blend and your food can further enhance their anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties. Many stronger cancer-fighting herbs are available. Always consult an experienced herbalist or healthcare provider for advice on using stronger herbal remedies tailored to your individual needs.

My mom has swapped her afternoon-flavored coffee drink for this healing tea. By doing so, she’s maintaining her cherished ritual of sitting down with a warm cup while reading, now with the added comfort of knowing she’s supporting her body’s recovery. "It feels good to enjoy something I love and know it’s helping me heal," she shared with a smile.

Supplements for Cancer

Modern agricultural practices have reduced the nutrient density of many foods, making supplementation a valuable tool for addressing deficiencies (Davis et al., 2004). Begin with a high-quality multivitamin and consult with a practitioner to customize a regimen. Key supplements for cancer patients may include antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E, minerals such as selenium and zinc, and other supplements like NAC, ALA, and CoQ10. 

My mom and I carefully reviewed her previous supplement regimen and overall diet, discussing each element in detail. Together, we selected a few additional herbs and supplements to specifically target her nutritional deficiencies, support her diabetes management, and alleviate the side effects of her lymphoma and cancer treatments. "Every little step feels like I’m building my body’s defenses," she told me.

Exercise for Cancer

Exercise is a potent ally in cancer prevention and recovery. Regular physical activity—3–5 hours weekly—improves cardiovascular health, boosts mood, and reduces treatment side effects like fatigue and cognitive decline (Wang & Zhou, 2021). Incorporating a mix of cardio and strength training yields the best results.

Over a year ago, I gave my mom a gym membership for her birthday. At the time, she had never exercised in her life and laughed it off as a joke. Knowing my mom’s sense of responsibility, I figured she’d at least give it a try since the membership was already paid for. To my surprise, she not only went to check it out but also signed up for twice-weekly training sessions. By the time she started her cancer treatment, she was in the best physical shape of her life.

However, her momentum suddenly came to a halt. The daily doctor visits, endless tests, and the onset of chemotherapy side effects left her too drained to keep up with her routine. Now, she’s determined to get back on track. "I don’t want to go back to the way my body felt over the last 30 years," she told me. Learning that several hours of exercise per week could reduce her chemo side effects and speed up her recovery has reignited her commitment. Watching her rediscover her strength has been nothing short of inspiring.

Sleep Yourself Healthier

Quality sleep is vital for immune function and cellular repair. Poor sleep has been linked to increased cancer risk (Blask, 2009). Optimize sleep hygiene by reducing blue light exposure in the evening, avoiding caffeine late in the day, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule (Blume et al., 2019; Givler et al., 2023). Melatonin supplements in the evening also helps some people get to sleep with few side effects (Givler et al., 2023). Waking in the night can have many causes, including issues with holding urination, sleep apnea, blood sugar fluctuations, and stress. Consult a health practitioner to help determine causes and solutions for your sleep issues. 

Sleep had never been a challenge for my mom—she was one of those rare people who could fall asleep within minutes and wake up refreshed. However, at the start of her treatment, anxiety often crept in and disrupted her restful nights. Together, we tried various stress-reduction techniques to help her process the overwhelming emotions and uncertainty. She noticed a tangible improvement, saying, "It feels like I’m finally giving my mind a break." She also took the initiative to consult her doctor about better managing her post-treatment blood sugar spikes, which further eased her nighttime restlessness.

An Off-the-Wall Alternative Cancer Treatment

Fenbendazole, an over-the-counter animal dewormer, has gained traction online for its purported ability to combat cancer. In this video, Joe Tippens presents a lot of anecdotal evidence about people curing every cancer imaginable with Fenbendazole. Always consult with a healthcare provider before considering unconventional treatments. My mom decided against trying it, opting instead to focus on the drug trial, which she felt was a better option for her healing journey.

Stress is the Biggest Issue

Stress undermines the immune system and accelerates disease progression. Addressing stress is a cornerstone of any effective cancer recovery plan. In the next article, I’ll explore how managing stress and harnessing the mind’s power can complement these physical approaches to healing.

Managing stress has become one of my mom’s greatest challenges during her cancer journey. She has immersed herself in understanding how the brain processes stress, exploring alternative ways to reframe her thoughts about her diagnosis, and practicing meditation techniques to center and calm her mind. One day, as I glanced at her kitchen counter, I noticed she had renamed the notebook holding all her cancer-related paperwork from "Lymphoma" to "Healing Journey." In that moment, I felt a surge of pride and admiration for her resilience and determination to take control of her inner narrative.

In part 2, titled “Why My Mom (and I) Got Cancer,” we’ll delve into how stress contributes to diseases such as cancer, how our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs determine how we respond to external stressors, and how shifting our mindset may support recovery. 

References

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