Lymphoma is the general name given to a group of blood cancers that manifest in your lymphatic system. There are two principle types of lymphoma: Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society states that in 2010, about 628,415 Americans were living with lymphoma or in remission. Dietary supplements may be a helpful adjunct therapy in treating your lymphoma, but you should always discuss the use of supplements with your cancer specialist before using them to treat your condition.
Lymphoma
The signs and symptoms of lymphoma may mimic those of other conditions, which makes diagnosing this condition more challenging. According to the Lymphoma Research Foundation, some of the most commonly experienced signs and symptoms associated with lymphoma include unexplained weight loss, fever, fatigue, sweating, chills, itching and lymph node swelling. Flu-like symptoms are one of the most common reasons why people with lymphoma first go to the doctor.
Useful Dietary Supplements
Certain dietary supplements may be useful adjunct therapies in treating your lymphoma, but not all supplements used for this health purpose may be backed by extensive scientific testing. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch reports that many dietary supplements, such as superoxide dismutaste, 7-keto DHEA, coenzymes A and Q10, shiitake extract, reishi extract, multi-enzyme complex, multi-mineral complex, garlic and astragalus, may be helpful in treating cancer, including lymphomas.
Featured Supplement
Astragalus may be a useful dietary supplement in treating your lymphoma. Astragalus, states Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and the author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," contains two main active constituents, polysaccharides and saponins, and may be helpful in treating a variety of conditions, including cancer, tumors, colds, flu and immune deficiency-related problems. Astragalus is considered an immune system tonic, and it may be particularly helpful for those receiving chemotherapy.
Considerations
Conventional treatment methods for lymphoma may include chemotherapy, radiotherapy and bone marrow transplantation. Natural treatment approaches may best be used as supportive therapies and should only be used if you are under the supervision of a cancer specialist. The use of dietary supplements, though often helpful in reducing lymphoma symptoms or decreasing the effects of chemotherapy, do not guarantee a positive health result. Review proper dosage and other supplement-related topics with your doctor before ingesting supplements.
References
- Leukemia and Lymphoma Society; Lymphoma; March 14, 2011
- Lymphoma Research Foundation: About Lymphoma
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
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