Liver cancer is a rare form of cancer that may be caused by a number of factors including cirrhosis, haemochromatosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or a viral infection such as hepatitis B or C. Stage A liver cancer is treated by removing the cancerous part of the liver, performing a liver transplant or using a form of heat therapy known as radiofrequency ablation. Liver cancer that has progressed beyond this stage, however, cannot usually be treated. Some supplements may help to alleviate treatment related side effects and give you a boost. However, you should talk to your doctor before using them as they may interfere with your treatment.
Choline
Choline is often included in B vitamin complex supplements and, according to the A.P. John Cancer Research Institute, may help to fight cancer-related fatigue. Additionally, an early study into the relationship between liver cancer and choline, published in the October 1984 issue of "Carconogenesis" found that mice that were fed a diet deficient in choline were more likely to develop liver cancer. Choline is found in a number of foods including liver, fish, beans, spinach and eggs. It can also be take as a dietary supplement. RxList notes that it is likely safe for most adults but high doses may cause side effects including sweating, vomiting and diarrhea.
Green Tea
Compounds found in green tea interfere with the supply of energy to cancer cells and help starve them to death, the A.P. John Cancer Research Institute notes. An article published in the October 2010 issue of "Nutrition and Cancer" also notes that extracts of green tea and chemicals found in green tea, known as polyphenols, may inhibit the formation and development of tumors. Green tea is usually consumed as a beverage, but it is also available in capsule and tablet form. It is likely safe for most adults, but high doses or long-term use may cause side effects including an upset stomach, irritability and anxiety. Do not take concentrated green tea extract as it may cause liver problems.
Selenium
The trace mineral selenium may interfere with the activity of genes involved in cancer cell growth and may also induce cancer cell death, according to the A.P. John Cancer Research Institute. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center also notes that selenium can help to reduce treatment-related side effects. This mineral is found in a host of foods including whole grains, poultry and nuts. It can also be taken as a dietary supplement. Talk to your doctor before using selenium supplements as high doses may deplete vitamin C levels.
References
- NHS Choices: Liver Cancer
- A.P.John Institute for Cancer Research
- PubMed: The Induction of Liver Cancer by Dietary Deficiency of Coline and Methionine Without Added Carcinogens
- RxList: Choline
- PubMed: Green Tea and Cancer Prevention.
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Green Tea
