1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237)6
Using food, vitamins,
and other supplements
to fight cancer
Many people want to know how they can
fight cancer by eating certain foods or taking
vitamins or supplements. But there are no
studies that prove that any special diet, food,
vitamin, mineral, dietary supplement, herb, or
combination of these can slow cancer, cure it,
or keep it from coming back. In fact, some of
these products can cause other problems by
changing how your cancer treatment works.
Tell your doctor, nurse, or dietitian about any vitamin, mineral, dietary supplements,
or herbs you are already taking or plan to take. Also, talk with them before going on a
special diet.
For more information about complementary and alternative therapies, see inking About
Complementary & Alternative Medicine: A Guide for People with Cancer, a booklet from the
National Cancer Institute, at www.cancer.gov/publications/patient-education/thinking-
about-cam.
Special note for caregivers
Do not be surprised or upset if your loved one’s food preferences change from day to day.
ere may be days when they do not want a favorite food or say it now tastes bad.
Keep food within easy reach. is way, your loved one can have a snack whenever they are
ready to eat. Put a snack pack of applesauce or diced fruit along with a spoon on the bedside
table. Keep roasted nuts on the counter. Or try keeping cut-up fruits and vegetables in the
refrigerator. Eat fruits and vegetables with dips for extra calories and protein. Carrots go well
with hummus and apples can be dipped in peanut butter.
Offer gentle support rather than pushing your loved one to eat. Suggest that they drink
plenty of clear and full liquids when they have no appetite. For ideas on clear liquids,
see page 41, and for full liquids, see page 42.
Talk with your loved one about ways to manage eating problems. Ask the doctor for a
referral to a dietitian and meet with them together. Talking it through and seeking other
advice can help you both feel more in control.
For more information about coping with caregiving, see When Someone You Love Is Being
Treated for Cancer, a booklet from the National Cancer Institute, at www.cancer.gov/
publications/patient-education/when-someone-you-love-is-being-treated.