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Cancer (Oncological Diseases)

Group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. Taking ANY supplements MUST be discussed with the treating oncologist, as many supplements can interact with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy, reducing their effectiveness or increasing side effects. Some antioxidants may be contraindicated during active treatment.

What may help
15
What to avoid
84

What may help (15)

  • Maitake Supplements MediumClinical

    Research suggests Maitake D-Fraction may serve as an adjunctive therapy during conventional cancer treatments, primarily by enhancing the body's immune response and promoting cellular health. This supplement is not a standalone treatment; always consult your oncologist before use.

  • Shiitake Supplements MediumClinical

    Specifically, the hot water extract contains compounds that may support the body's immune response during cancer therapy, acting as a valuable adjunct to conventional treatments.

  • Reishi Supplements LowClinical

    Reishi is being researched for its supportive role in oncology, primarily as an adjunct to conventional treatments to enhance immune function and potentially improve quality of life. Always consult your oncologist.

  • Anastrozole Supplements Very highTheoretical

    Anastrozole is highly effective in treating hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women by significantly reducing estrogen levels, which helps slow cancer growth.

  • Lymphatic Drainage Massage Practices Very highTheoretical

    Lymphatic drainage massage is exceptionally effective for managing lymphedema, a common complication after cancer treatments like lymph node dissection or radiation. By gently stimulating lymphatic flow, it significantly reduces swelling, improves tissue health, and enhances the overall quality of life for patients. Numerous meta-analyses and randomized controlled trials consistently demonstrate its robust efficacy in this context.

  • Sunscreen Use Habits Very highTheoretical

    Consistent sunscreen use significantly reduces the risk of all types of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. This is achieved by blocking or absorbing harmful UV radiation, preventing DNA damage in skin cells that can lead to oncogenic mutations. Meta-analyses consistently show a profound protective effect, making it a cornerstone of cancer prevention.

  • Acupressure Practices HighTheoretical

    Acupressure is highly effective as an adjunctive therapy for managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) and cancer-related fatigue (CRF). By modulating vagal nerve activity and reducing stress, it significantly improves comfort and energy levels in patients undergoing cancer treatment. Effect sizes for CINV often exceed 0.8.

  • Eat Whole Foods Habits HighTheoretical

    Diets rich in whole foods, particularly fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are consistently associated with a lower risk of various cancers. The abundance of antioxidants, fiber, and phytonutrients works synergistically to reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and promote healthy cell cycle regulation, offering robust preventive benefits.

  • High-Fiber and Vegetable Diet Practices HighTheoretical

    A diet rich in fiber and vegetables is strongly associated with a reduced risk of various cancers, particularly colorectal cancer. Fiber aids in faster waste elimination, while the abundant antioxidants and phytochemicals in vegetables provide cellular protection against DNA damage and inhibit cancer cell proliferation.

  • Mediterranean Diet Practices HighTheoretical

    Observational studies consistently link adherence to the Mediterranean Diet with a reduced risk of various cancers. Its high content of fiber, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, combined with lower red meat intake, collectively contributes to chemopreventive effects.

  • Turkey Tail Supplements HighTheoretical

    As an adjunctive therapy, particularly PSK, Turkey Tail is extensively studied for its potential to support the immune system during conventional cancer treatments, aiming to enhance efficacy and reduce side effects.

  • CrossFit Practices MediumTheoretical

    For cancer survivors, structured high-intensity functional training can significantly enhance physical function, reduce cancer-related fatigue, and improve overall quality of life. This supports metabolic health and aids in comprehensive recovery, always under medical guidance.

  • High-Fiber Diet Habits MediumTheoretical

    Adequate fiber intake is consistently associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. Fiber increases stool bulk, shortens the transit time of potential carcinogens, and fosters a healthy gut microbiome that produces protective short-chain fatty acids beneficial for colon cell health.

  • Integral Yoga Practices MediumTheoretical

    As an adjunctive therapy, Integral Yoga significantly improves the quality of life for cancer patients and survivors by reducing fatigue, anxiety, depression, and pain. It supports emotional well-being and stress management during treatment.

  • Ketogenic Diet Practices MediumTheoretical

    As an adjunctive therapy, the ketogenic diet is being investigated for its potential role in cancer management. By exploiting the Warburg effect (cancer cells' reliance on glucose) and reducing insulin/IGF-1 signaling, it aims to metabolically starve cancer cells while potentially making them more vulnerable to conventional treatments.

What to avoid (84)

  • Chiropractic Practices Very highClinical

    Chiropractic manipulation is generally contraindicated for patients with active cancer, especially if it has spread to bones, due to the severe risk of pathological fractures or neurological damage like spinal cord compression. Always consult your oncologist first.

  • Fasting Mimicking Diet Practices Very highClinical

    This diet is contraindicated for individuals undergoing active cancer treatment (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation), due to potential for malnutrition, interference with treatment efficacy, and immune suppression.

  • Osteopathy Practices Very highClinical

    Active cancer, especially with metastases to bones or areas targeted for manipulation, is a strict contraindication due to the very high risk of pathological fractures, tumor dissemination, or exacerbation of symptoms.

  • Time-Restricted Eating 16/8 Practices Very highClinical

    Patients with active cancer or experiencing cachexia require consistent nutritional support for energy and repair. Fasting can worsen malnutrition and weaken the body, potentially interfering with treatment or recovery.

  • Curcumin Supplements HighClinical

    If you have cancer or are undergoing chemotherapy, always consult your oncologist before taking curcumin, as it may interact with treatments or affect their efficacy.

  • Diindolylmethane (DIM) Supplements HighClinical

    If you have a hormone-sensitive cancer, such as certain breast or prostate cancers, DIM could potentially interfere with your condition or its treatment. Always consult your oncologist.

  • Herbal Steam Bath Practices HighClinical

    If undergoing cancer treatment (chemotherapy, radiation) or in a weakened state due to cancer, avoid steam baths. Your immune system may be compromised, and heat can exacerbate fatigue or other side effects.

  • Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C) Supplements HighClinical

    If you have cancer, especially hormone-sensitive types, avoid this supplement. It may interfere with your treatment or influence disease progression, and you must consult your oncologist before use.

  • Lymphatic Drainage Massage Practices HighClinical

    Lymphatic drainage massage is generally contraindicated in active cancer or undiagnosed suspicious lesions due to the theoretical risk of promoting metastasis. Medical clearance is essential for post-treatment lymphedema.

  • Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) Supplements HighClinical

    If you have cancer, consult your oncologist before taking NMN. Its effects on cellular metabolism may interact with your condition or treatment.

  • Panax Ginseng Supplements HighClinical

    If you have cancer, especially estrogen-sensitive types like breast cancer, consult your oncologist before using Panax Ginseng due to potential interactions with treatment or hormonal effects.

  • Pygeum africanum (Bark) Supplements HighClinical

    If you have cancer, especially prostate cancer, consult your oncologist before using Pygeum africanum. It may interact with treatments or influence disease monitoring.

  • Reflexology Practices HighClinical

    If you have known bone metastases, especially in the hands or feet, reflexology on those specific areas is contraindicated due to the risk of causing pathological fractures from direct pressure.

  • Serrapeptase Supplements HighClinical

    Individuals with cancer should only use Serrapeptase under strict guidance from their oncologist due to potential interactions with treatments.

  • Spermidine Supplements HighClinical

    If you are undergoing cancer treatment or have a history of cancer, consult your oncologist before taking spermidine. Its effect on cell growth is complex and could potentially interfere with your therapy.

  • Thai Massage Practices HighClinical

    Deep or vigorous massage is contraindicated over active cancer sites or areas with metastases, especially bone, due to potential for pain, fracture, or discomfort. Always consult an oncologist.

  • Transcranial Brain Stimulation Practices HighClinical

    Brain tumors are a contraindication, as stimulation may cause cerebral edema, exacerbate neurological symptoms, or potentially affect tumor growth.

  • Vitex Agnus-Castus Supplements HighClinical

    Avoid if you have hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast or prostate cancer, as it might influence tumor growth.

  • Walking Meditation Practices HighClinical

    Advanced cancer or its treatments can cause debilitating fatigue, weakness, or bone fragility, making walking unsafe. Discuss with your oncologist.

  • TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4 Acetate) Supplements Very highAnimal research

    Avoid if you have cancer or a history of cancer, as this supplement promotes cell growth and new blood vessel formation, which could potentially accelerate tumor progression or recurrence.

  • Calcium D-Glucarate Supplements MediumClinical

    If you have cancer, especially hormone-sensitive types, consult your oncologist before taking this supplement. It may interfere with certain treatments or hormone levels.

  • Deep Tissue Massage Practices MediumClinical

    If you have active cancer, especially with metastases or undergoing treatment like chemotherapy, consult your oncologist. Deep tissue massage may cause discomfort or, in rare cases, theoretical risks related to metastases.

  • Glutamine Supplements MediumClinical

    If you have cancer, or are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, discuss glutamine with your oncologist. Some research suggests it might support cancer cell growth, and it could interfere with your treatment.

  • Integral Yoga Practices MediumClinical

    Yoga practice with active cancer, especially with bone metastases or during chemotherapy, requires strict medical clearance and modification due to fracture risk, fatigue, or infection.

  • Iyengar Yoga Practices MediumClinical

    For active cancer, especially with bone metastases, severe fatigue, or cachexia, strenuous Iyengar Yoga practices may be unsafe. Always consult your oncologist for personalized advice on physical activity.

  • Portion Control Practices MediumClinical

    Cancer patients often have increased energy needs, especially during treatment or with cachexia. Restrictive portion control can worsen malnutrition and impair recovery.

  • Resveratrol Supplements MediumClinical

    If you have cancer or are undergoing cancer treatment, consult your oncologist before taking resveratrol, as it may interact with therapies.

  • Seed Cycling Practices MediumClinical

    Individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g., breast, ovarian, prostate cancer) or a history of such cancers should consult their oncologist before starting seed cycling due to the phytoestrogen content, which may interact with hormone therapies.

  • Sports Massage Practices MediumClinical

    If you have active cancer, especially with bone metastases, or are undergoing treatment like chemotherapy/radiation, vigorous sports massage is generally contraindicated due to risks of fracture, skin fragility, or immune compromise. Medical clearance is required.

  • Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) Supplements MediumClinical

    For those undergoing cancer treatment, particularly chemotherapy or radiation that relies on oxidative stress, consult your oncologist before taking oral protected SOD, as it may interfere with therapy.

  • Swedish Massage Practices MediumClinical

    For active cancer, especially with bone metastases or low blood counts (e.g., platelets), physician clearance is essential due to risks of fracture or bleeding; gentle, modified massage may be possible with approval.

  • Tribulus Terrestris Supplements MediumClinical

    If you have cancer, especially hormone-sensitive types like prostate cancer, discuss Tribulus Terrestris with your oncologist. It might affect hormone levels or interact with your treatment.

  • Trypsin Supplements MediumClinical

    If you have cancer or are undergoing cancer treatment, consult your oncologist before taking trypsin, as it may interact with medications or treatments.

  • Vitamin B9 Supplements MediumClinical

    If you have cancer, consult your oncologist before taking Vitamin B9. It may interfere with certain chemotherapy treatments or impact disease progression.

  • Yoga Practice Habits MediumClinical

    If you have cancer, especially with bone metastases or undergoing active treatment like chemotherapy that causes fatigue or fragility, intense yoga is contraindicated. Physical activity should be gentle and medically approved. Consult your oncologist.

  • BPC-157 Supplements MediumAnimal research

    Avoid if you have cancer or a history of it. BPC-157 promotes tissue growth and angiogenesis, which could potentially accelerate the growth of existing tumors.

  • Foam Rolling Practices LowClinical

    Do not use foam rolling directly over any known tumor sites or areas of active cancer, especially if there are bone metastases, due to the risk of pain, fracture, or other complications. Always consult your oncologist.

  • Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) Supplements LowClinical

    HCG is a hormone, and its use might influence hormone-sensitive cancers. Consult your oncologist before use if you have any history of cancer.

  • Ornithine Supplements LowClinical

    If you have cancer, it is crucial to consult your oncologist before taking Ornithine, as it may interact with treatments or affect disease progression.

  • Trigger Point Therapy Practices LowClinical

    Direct treatment over active tumor sites or areas of known malignancy is contraindicated due to the risk of local pain exacerbation or, theoretically, contributing to disease spread. Always consult with the patient's oncologist.

  • Cigarette Smoking Habits Very highTheoretical

    Smoking is a primary cause of numerous cancers, including lung, oral, throat, esophageal, and bladder cancers, significantly increasing the risk of malignant tumor development.

  • Dihexa Supplements Very highTheoretical

    Avoid Dihexa if you have any form of cancer, as its growth-promoting effects on cells could potentially worsen the disease or interfere with treatment.

  • Herbalism / Phytotherapy Practices Very highTheoretical

    Herbal remedies can interact dangerously with chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy, potentially reducing treatment effectiveness or increasing side effects. STRICTLY consult your oncologist before using any herbs.

  • Turkey Tail Supplements Very highTheoretical

    If you are undergoing cancer treatment, especially chemotherapy, it is crucial to discuss Turkey Tail with your oncologist. It may interact with medications or treatments, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing side effects.

  • Apigenin Supplements HighTheoretical

    If you have cancer, particularly hormone-sensitive types like breast or prostate cancer, consult your oncologist before taking apigenin, as it may influence disease progression or interfere with treatments.

  • Colloidal Gold and Silver Supplements HighTheoretical

    If you have cancer, it's crucial to discuss this supplement with your oncologist due to potential interactions or unknown effects on your condition.

  • DHEA Supplements HighTheoretical

    DHEA can convert to estrogen and testosterone, which might stimulate the growth of hormone-sensitive cancers such as breast, prostate, or ovarian cancer. Always consult your oncologist.

  • Dutasteride Supplements HighTheoretical

    If you're a man, be aware that dutasteride can significantly lower PSA levels, potentially masking prostate cancer. Regular screening is essential when taking this supplement.

  • Ethanol (alcohol) Supplements HighTheoretical

    Regular alcohol consumption is a known risk factor for several types of cancer, including mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, and breast cancer.

  • Fadogia Agrestis Supplements HighTheoretical

    Patients with hormone-sensitive cancers, especially prostate or breast cancer, must avoid this supplement due to its potential impact on hormone levels. Always consult your oncologist.

  • Gynostemma Pentaphyllum Supplements HighTheoretical

    If you are undergoing cancer treatment, consult your oncologist before taking this supplement due to potential interactions.

  • Hops Supplements HighTheoretical

    If you have a hormone-sensitive cancer (like breast, ovarian, or uterine cancer), avoid hops as its phytoestrogenic properties might stimulate cancer cell growth.

  • Hyaluronic acid (HA) Supplements HighTheoretical

    If you have cancer, especially aggressive types, avoid oral hyaluronic acid as it can sometimes promote tumor growth or spread.

  • Ibutamoren MK 677 Supplements HighTheoretical

    Due to its effect on growth hormone and IGF-1, Ibutamoren MK-677 might stimulate the growth of existing cancer cells. Consult an oncologist.

  • Inactive Lifestyle Habits HighTheoretical

    An inactive lifestyle is a significant risk factor for developing several types of cancer and can worsen prognosis in existing cancer patients by promoting inflammation and metabolic dysfunction. Maintain activity levels as advised by your oncologist.

  • Morning Sun Exposure Habits HighTheoretical

    Individuals with fair skin, a history of skin cancer, or numerous moles should limit unprotected morning sun exposure, as cumulative UV radiation significantly increases the risk of melanoma and other skin cancers.

  • Naturopathy Practices HighTheoretical

    Many supplements can interfere with cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation, reducing effectiveness or increasing toxicity. Always consult your oncologist.

  • Piracetam Supplements HighTheoretical

    If you are undergoing cancer treatment, discuss any supplement use, including piracetam, with your oncologist due to potential interactions or altered treatment effectiveness.

  • Pregnenolone Supplements HighTheoretical

    If you have or have had cancer, especially hormone-sensitive types like breast or prostate cancer, avoid pregnenolone as it might influence tumor growth by affecting hormone levels.

  • Red Clover Supplements HighTheoretical

    If you have a history of cancer, especially hormone-sensitive cancers like breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer, you should strictly avoid Red Clover. Its estrogen-like compounds may interfere with your treatment or disease progression.

  • Tongkat Ali Supplements HighTheoretical

    As Tongkat Ali may influence hormone levels, it should be avoided by individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g., prostate or breast cancer) or those undergoing related treatments, without strict medical guidance.

  • Unifiram Supplements HighTheoretical

    If you have cancer, consult your oncologist before using Unifiram, as its effects on disease progression or interactions with treatment are unknown.

  • Using Smokeless Tobacco Habits HighTheoretical

    Smokeless tobacco contains carcinogens that significantly increase the risk of oral and throat cancers, as well as precancerous lesions like leukoplakia. Regular screening by a dentist is vital if you use these products.

  • Vitamin A Supplements HighTheoretical

    If you are a smoker or have a history of asbestos exposure, high-dose beta-carotene supplements have been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer.

  • Alcohol Consumption Habits MediumTheoretical

    Alcohol is a known carcinogen, increasing the risk of developing cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, breast, and colon. Even moderate consumption contributes to this risk.

  • Boron Supplements MediumTheoretical

    Boron can influence hormone levels, especially estrogen and testosterone. If you have cancer, particularly hormone-sensitive types, consult your oncologist before considering boron.

  • Clomiphene Supplements MediumTheoretical

    If you have a history of certain cancers, particularly hormone-sensitive types (like breast or ovarian), clomiphene is generally not recommended as it could potentially influence tumor growth.

  • Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) Supplements MediumTheoretical

    If you have cancer or are undergoing cancer treatment, consult your oncologist before taking CLA, as it may interact with therapies or affect disease progression.

  • Cupping Therapy Practices MediumTheoretical

    Avoid cupping directly over active cancer sites or areas of metastasis, as it may theoretically promote local tumor growth or inflammation.

  • D-Aspartic Acid Supplements MediumTheoretical

    Consult your oncologist before use if you have cancer, especially hormone-sensitive types like prostate cancer, as D-Aspartic Acid may affect hormone levels.

  • Ecdysterone Supplements MediumTheoretical

    If you have cancer, especially hormone-sensitive types, consult your oncologist before using Ecdysterone, as its effects on hormonal pathways are not fully clear and could potentially interfere with treatment.

  • Ergothioneine Supplements MediumTheoretical

    If you are undergoing cancer treatment, consult your oncologist before taking ergothioneine, as some antioxidants may interact with therapies.

  • Hesperidin Supplements MediumTheoretical

    If you are undergoing cancer treatment, consult your oncologist before taking hesperidin, as it may interact with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

  • Ligandrol LGD-4033 Supplements MediumTheoretical

    As a substance interacting with hormone pathways, there's a theoretical concern it could influence the growth of hormone-sensitive cancers. Use with extreme caution and medical consultation.

  • Milk Thistle Supplements MediumTheoretical

    Due to potential mild estrogenic effects, avoid milk thistle if you have hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g., breast, ovarian, uterine) or are on related hormone therapies, unless advised by your doctor.

  • NSI-189 Supplements MediumTheoretical

    Given its experimental nature and potential effects on cell growth (neurogenesis), NSI-189 should be avoided if you have cancer due to unknown interactions or risks.

  • Pterostilbene Supplements MediumTheoretical

    If you have cancer, consult your oncologist before taking Pterostilbene. Some supplements might interfere with cancer treatments or their effectiveness.

  • Saw Palmetto Supplements MediumTheoretical

    If you have cancer, especially hormone-sensitive types like prostate or breast cancer, or are undergoing treatment, avoid use as it may interfere with therapy.

  • Selenium Supplements MediumTheoretical

    Some research suggests that high selenium intake may increase the risk of certain cancers, such as high-grade prostate cancer, in specific populations. Always consult an oncologist before taking selenium if you have cancer or a history of it.

  • Vitamin E Supplements MediumTheoretical

    If you have cancer, especially prostate cancer, or are undergoing chemotherapy, always consult your oncologist before taking natural alpha-tocopherol Vitamin E, as it may interact with treatments or influence disease progression.

  • Cistanche Tubulosa Supplements LowTheoretical

    If you have hormone-sensitive cancer (e.g., prostate or breast cancer), consult your oncologist before using Cistanche Tubulosa due to its potential hormonal effects.

  • Maca Root Supplements LowTheoretical

    Due to Maca's potential to influence hormone balance, individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers (like breast, ovarian, or prostate cancer) should avoid it.

  • Uridine Supplements LowTheoretical

    If you have cancer, consult your oncologist before taking uridine. As a building block for cell growth, it might interact with your treatment or disease progression.

  • Acupressure Practices LowTheoretical

    Acupressure should be avoided directly over known tumor sites or areas undergoing active cancer treatment due to potential local irritation or theoretical concerns of affecting tumor spread. Always consult your oncologist.

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