Since my diagnosis with a prostate cancer with the added complications of ductal carcinoma, I have made radical improvements to my diet and have had a high intake of antioxidants (like vitamin C and E, for example) to help my body naturally heal. I really believe that science is doing a lot for me right now, but I also help along with my own immune system and everything that goes into my body.
After my brachy therapy a week ago, supplements and good food intake were an integral part of my ongoing recovery.
Yesterday my radio-oncologist explained to me what will occur when I start next Monday on a 23-day external beam radiotherapy to wrap up my treatment plan. One of his comments was about absolute avoidance of *all* antioxidants during the entire 23 treatment period. His view as a radio-oncologist, and the science behind it is straightforward and sounds (at least scientifically) logical:
- external beam radiation works by flooding the area with free radicals to kill the cancer cells
- antioxidants are a nutritional component that attempts to eliminate free radicals
... Therefore, antioxidants impede the effectiveness of the radiotherapy.
My possibly naïve view differs. In my opinion, antioxidants work at the systemic level to gently help the body's natural systems to protect from the damage of free radicals.
This view is also supported by several natural healing professionals out there who generally state that the antioxidants will protect the surrounding tissues and only ever-so-slightly minimize the repeated and intense radiation that is aimed directly at the targeted prostate gland.
So, while hoping I'm not opening a controversial hornet's nest, what do you all think? Do antioxidants have a place in your self-care while undergoing external beam radiotherapy? Or do they protect the cancer cells just as much as they protect the healthy ones?
Hello DP857864
I can only go from personal experience. My oncologist team and my GP have requested I let them know of ANY supplements I take to avoid anything that will cause a medication clash. The only supplement I take is Sage Tablets to prevent hot flushes and this has been approved by the Oncology team ang the pharmacist at the GP's.
I would support the view of the radiologist - it's his job to make sure the treatment works.
Best wishes - Brian.
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