by Tamara Stewart

Created on: May 30, 2008

There is nothing worse than hearing the news "You have cancer." Cancer is still one of the leading causes of death in the U.S.A. and many parts of the world. It is estimated that one out every three people in the world will die of some form of cancer. Everyday more evidence shows there is a place for naturopathic cures in treating cancer. Should naturopathic cures replace conventional treatments? No. However, naturopathic treatments can work to promote better health, help increase the chances of success in chemotherapy and radiation treatments, while decreasing the side effects. By combining the benefits of naturopathic treatments, with conventional medicine, patients can increase their chances of survival.

Naturopathic treatments are geared toward the individual, not designed for one size fits all. Each patient has different needs and it is important to see a licensed naturopathic doctor, or an MD or DO who specializes in holistic treatment to decide the best strategy in beating your cancer. Some of the key treatments that your doctor will probably discuss with you include: diet and nutrition, supplements and homeopathy. Oriental medicine, physical medicine, and psychological medicine may also be treatments your doctor may discuss with you in your treatment plan.

Diet and Nutrition

Diet and nutrition play a role in your health. Not only by helping to prevent cancer, but helping you fight the battle against cancer. Eat plenty of cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower. These vegetables contain phytochemicals shown to be effective in reducing cancer. Diets should also include plenty of cherries, grapes, plums, apples, cantaloupe, carrots, squash, nuts (such as walnut, almonds, and Brazil nuts), and beans (legumes such as chickpeas, lentils, red beans). Make sure to include whole grains and brown rice to the mix as well. When looking at anticancer diets, think color. Vegetables and fruit that are green, red, blue, purple, orange, yellow, and white are good bets for healthy choices.

Watch out for processed refined foods, white flour, salt, saturated fats, and sugar. Cancer thrives on sugar. Stay away from smoked or cured meats, and lunch meat. Eat three servings of fish, such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel each week. Limit or avoid consumption of animal protein as much as possible.

Getting enough nutrients is a problem that many people with cancer face. When you are undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation

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