AICR
Complementary therapies are valuable tools in cancer care when used alongside conventional treatments, such as surgery and chemotherapy.
Research shows that some complementary therapies are safe and helpful. These include:
- Nutrition
- Acupuncture
- Physical activity
- Yoga
- Meditation
These therapies can help manage side effects and support well-being during and after cancer treatment. This blog will explain why you should consider adding these into your cancer treatment plan.
Complementary vs. alternative therapies
You may hear the phrase “complementary and alternative therapies.” These two terms do not mean the same thing. It is important to separate them.
- Complementary therapies are used alongside conventional care (surgery, chemotherapy and radiation) to help manage side effects or improve treatment outcomes. Examples are nutrition, yoga and meditation.
- Alternative therapies are used instead of conventional care. They may lack scientific evidence, which means there is not enough information to recommend them. Examples are unproven supplement infusions, cleanses and crystal healing.
Not all therapies are equally safe and effective. Delaying or refusing conventional treatment for unproven alternative therapies is risky and can be harmful. Some may negatively interact with your medicines. For example, some herbal supplements may be harmful in large doses or may make your medication less (or more) potent. Always work with your oncologist before trying a new therapy.
Complementary Therapies That May Help
Here are some complementary therapies that may help during and after cancer treatment.
Nutrition
For improved outcomes, nutrition should be considered alongside other cancer treatment from day one. Eating a balanced diet can help you:
- Heal and recover faster from treatments
- Reduce your risk of infection
- Support your immune system
- Build strength and energy
- Tolerate side effects from treatments
- Reduce your risk of cancer recurrence
- Get the right nutrients to support health
Work with an oncology dietitian to tailor a nutrition plan to address your personal needs. You can use AICR’s New American Plate as a template to plan healthy meals.
Physical activity
Aim for at least 150 minutes per week when you feel up to it. And it’s fine to start slowly. Any physical activity is better than none. Physical activity can help:
- Elevate mood
- Improve sleep
- Reduce fatigue
- Support bone health
- Improve quality of life
Work with your oncologist or an exercise specialist to set up your personalized plan.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a practice that applies thin needles, heat or pressure on various places on the body. It may help relieve a range of cancer-related symptoms and treatment side effects, including:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain
- Cancer-related fatigue
- Sleep issues
Your cancer clinic can help you find a qualified acupuncture practitioner. Find someone certified with the National Association for the Certification of Acupuncturists and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) or the National Certification Board for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (NCBAHM).
Yoga and meditation
Yoga aims to balance the mind and body through stretches, poses and controlled breathing. Meditation uses breathing or word repetition to quiet the mind and calm emotions. Both practices may help:
- Reduce stress
- Lessen anxiety
- Reduce fatigue
Choose a cancer-specific program that focuses on safe movement, breathing and relaxation rather than strenuous poses.
