Dr. Max Gerson began treating cancer patients with specific nutritional approaches in the early 1900s. His approach has also shown potential in treating other health problems, including diabetes. Leukemia, pancreatic cancer and brain cancer are three types that may not respond the to the program, notes the Gerson Institute. Always work with your doctor before beginning a new diet routine, especially if you are being treated for some type of health condition.
How It Works
The combination of foods, supplements and coffee enemas created by Dr. Gerson are designed to allow your body to heal itself from cancer and other diseases. The enemas work to increase the detoxification done by your liver. You drink a glass of juice at regular intervals throughout the day while taking other foods and supplements. You cannot follow the diet while undergoing chemotherapy but can combine it with radiation treatments. Beginning the Gerson diet after chemotherapy may help your body rid itself of residual chemicals.
Foods
The diet consists of a large amount of juice made from fresh fruits and vegetables, including oranges, carrots, apples and leafy greens. The juices must be prepared with specific combinations of fruits and vegetables. Raw fruits and vegetables are also advocated for meals and snacks. Other recommended foods include dried fruit, baked potatoes, oatmeal, organic rye bread and flaxseed oil. Most other foods are restricted while following the diet, including meat, dairy, sweets, white flour and salt.
Exercise
The Gerson cancer treatment diet recommends yoga for people following the plan. Since the diet is for people suffering from cancer or other serious illnesses, exercise is not outlined as part of the program and participants should work with their doctors regarding how much and what types of exercise are safe.
Considerations
Diet should never replace medical treatment for cancer or any other illness.The Gerson cancer treatment diet can help with symptoms and recovery, you should never self-treat through dietary changes alone. Always talk with your oncologist before beginning the Gerson diet because the National Cancer Institute reports that a review of case studies of the Gerson diet have indicated no benefit. The diet requires a stay at a Gerson treatment facility, in many cases, located in Mexico and Hungary.
