Integrative Oncology

Stevie Smoot • August 18, 2023

Integrative oncology is an approach to cancer care that combines conventional medical treatments with complementary therapies to address the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of cancer and its treatment. The goal of integrative oncology is to provide comprehensive and personalized care to improve the overall well-being of the cancer patient and enhance the body's natural ability to fight the disease.

Some potential benefits of treatments used in integrative oncology, such as IV (intravenous) vitamin C, mistletoe therapy, and nutritional interventions, are as follows:

IV Vitamin C: High-dose vitamin C administered intravenously has been studied for its potential anticancer effects. It is believed to work by producing hydrogen peroxide, a compound that may selectively target and damage cancer cells while sparing normal cells. Some potential benefits include:

Enhanced immune system support: Vitamin C may help boost the immune system, which is crucial for fighting cancer.
Reduced side effects of conventional treatments: IV vitamin C may help reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Improved quality of life: Patients receiving IV vitamin C have reported improved energy levels and overall well-being.
For further information check out: Böttger, F., Vallés-Martí, A., Cahn, L. et al. High-dose intravenous vitamin C, a promising multi-targeting agent in the treatment of cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 40, 343 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13046-021-02134-y

Mistletoe Therapy: Mistletoe extracts have been used as an alternative cancer treatment in some parts of the world especially in Europe. Some potential benefits include:

Immune system modulation: Mistletoe extracts are believed to stimulate the immune system and have potential anticancer effects.
Improved symptoms and quality of life: Some studies suggest mistletoe therapy may help reduce cancer-related symptoms, such as fatigue and pain, and improve the overall quality of life.
For more information go to: Phase I Trial of Intravenous Mistletoe Extract in Advanced Cancer | Cancer Research Communications | American Association for Cancer Research (aacrjournals.org)

Nutritional Interventions: Proper nutrition is crucial during cancer treatment and recovery. Nutritional interventions in integrative oncology focus on providing the body with the necessary nutrients for healing and supporting the immune system. Potential benefits include:

Enhanced recovery and healing: A balanced diet can help patients recover from cancer treatments and surgeries more effectively.
Improved energy and strength: Adequate nutrition can help combat cancer-related fatigue and maintain muscle mass.
Better tolerance to treatment: A well-nourished body is more likely to tolerate and respond positively to cancer treatments.
Intermittent fasting and low carbohydrate intake have shown beneficial effects. For further information check out : Szypowska A, Regulska-Ilow B. Significance of low-carbohydrate diets and fasting in patients with cancer. Rocz Panstw Zakl Hig. 2019;70(4):325-336. doi: 10.32394/rpzh.2019.0083. PMID: 31960664.

We highly recommend the following books if you or a loved one has been given a cancer diagnosis: