More is known about the preventative power of vitamins in the prevention of cancer than is known about their ability to treat cancer.
Treating cancer with vitamins and minerals is a controversial issue. The conventional medical establishment has condemned megavitamin therapy as ineffective and even dangerous. Nevertheless, vitamin therapy has become one of the most commonly used alternative therapies for the treatment of cancer in the U.S.
Although mega-vitamin and -mineral doses should not be relied on alone to treat breast cancer, several supplements can help strengthen the immune system, and interfere with the action of carcinogens (cancer-inducing chemicals). For example, the antioxidant Vitamins C and E help combat free radicals and fortify the immune system.
Remember, however, that you should never start taking certain vitamins, minerals, or other supplements just because you read a study suggesting their potential ability to fight cancer. Be aware that certain supplements may interact adversely with conventional treatments for cancer. For example, certain supplements may decrease the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs or cause worse side effects. As with all issues of your treatment, you will need to discuss potential vitamin, mineral and other supplements in advance with your healthcare team, including your integrative medicine physician and your oncologist.
|
