Radiation for breast cancer causes you to experience many different unpleasant side effects. In addition to radiation burns to the skin and skin discomfort, you may also feel armpit discomfort, chest pain and fatigue. After talking with your oncologist, he may recommend that you take certain supplements in order to counteract these side effects and/or prevent a recurrence of the cancer.
CoQ10 and Ginseng
Adding CoQ10 to your diet during breast cancer treatment may shrink tumors, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This enzyme may also reduce pain and cause a partial remission in some individuals. CoQ10 helps to make cellular energy known as ATP.
According to BreastCancer.org, ginseng may help to relieve fatigue associated with radiation therapy. Research is ongoing to see if American ginseng can be used as a treatment for this radiation side effect.
Iodine
Iodine is often used to prevent breast cancer and by breast cancer patients to avoid a recurrence of cancer, states Medline Plus. The body cannot make iodine, so we need to ingest it. Most iodine can be found in our oceans, such as in seaweed. Certain salts today have been fortified with iodine. Iodine enables the thyroid gland to make hormones; not having enough iodine may increase the risk of breast cancer.
Ligans and Ellagic Acid
Ligans, which can be found in fruits, vegetables, soy and flaxseed, have been shown to have a protective action against breast cancer, states BreastCancerRadiation.us. When ingested, these compounds act as antioxidants. Ellagic acid is an anti-carcinogen antioxidant that can be found in fruits and vegetables, states BreastCancerRadiation.us. Some dietary sources include raspberries, strawberries, cranberries, pecans, walnuts and pomegranates. Also, ellagic acid may stop or slow the growth of cancer cells.
Astragalus and Graviola
Astragalus has been used to prevent many types of cancer, as well as fight colds, upper respiratory system infections, heart disease, diabetes, liver problems and lower blood pressure, according to BreastCancerRadiation.us. Astragalus also has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Graviola may also have a positive effect on your immune system, and may reverse chemotherapy side effects.
