Leukemia is a form of cancer that affects the bone marrow and the lymphatic system, both of which play an important role in maintaining immunity. A person with leukemia produces large quantities of abnormal white blood cells or leukocytes, the cells that help the body fight infection. Mayoclinic.com notes that leukemia treatment can be complex but may include chemotherapy, stem cell transplant or radiation therapy. Vitamin C might also play a role in the treatment of leukemia, although scientific evidence to prove this is limited. Don't use vitamin C in place of medical treatments and get medical advice before taking vitamin C supplements.
Properties and Uses
Also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in the production of collagen and neurotransmitters and also aids wound healing. A potent antioxidant, vitamin C helps protect the body's cells from free-radical damage and might help to prevent or treat a number of conditions including cataracts, cardiovascular disease and the common cold. The Office of Dietary Supplements states that a high concentration of vitamin C may help to generate hydrogen peroxide, a chemical that has selective toxicity towards cancer cells.
Research
Clinical studies evaluating the effects of vitamin C on leukemia are lacking. However, findings from laboratory research show promise. The results of a study published in "Cancer Cell International" in June 2011 show that vitamin C induces cell leukemia cell death, or apoptosis, by generating hydrogen peroxide generation. The authors conclude, therefore, that vitamin C may play a role in leukemia treatment. Research findings published in the "Journal of Radiation Research" in February 2011 show that vitamin C might also improve the effects of radiation on leukemia cells.
Administration
Vitamin C is found in a broad range of foods, including green peas, cantaloupe, baked potatoes, strawberries, red and green peppers and citrus fruits. It is also available as a dietary supplement in capsules or tablets. Guidance regarding a suitable dose for leukemia is lacking, but your doctor or oncologist might be able to advise on an appropriate dose.
Considerations
The Office of Dietary Supplements notes that vitamin C has low toxicity and is unlikely to cause serious adverse effects, even at high doses. However, common, minor side effects may include diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Paradoxically, although vitamin C might play a role in leukemia treatment, it might actually make chemotherapy drugs less effective. Therefore it is important to consult your oncologist before taking vitamin C supplements.
References
- Mayoclinic.com: Leukemia; April 2010
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin C
- "Cancer Cell International"; Vitamin K3 and Vitamin C Alone or in Combination Induced Apoptosis in Leukemia Cells by a Similar Oxidative Stress Signalling Mechanism; A.R. Bonilla-Porras et al.; June 2011
- "Journal of Radiation Research"; Ascorbic Acid Enhances Radiation-Induced Apoptosis in an HL60 Human Leukemia Cell Line; K. Shinozaki et al.; February 2011
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