The following article is in response to requests for more detailed information about the stages of cancer, treatments, and ways to negate side effects. NOTE: as always, consult your doctor or practitioner for exact food/diet suggestions, as not everything works for all people.
Let’s begin with the stages of Cancer. In stage zero there are a small number of cancerous cells in one area. Stages I, II and III progress into how involved the cancerous cells are, affecting both the local area and nearby organs. Stage IV involves other areas and organs, with numerous metastases or spreading, and this stage is often referred to as terminal.
What are some of the Treatment methods used for Cancer? Surgical: laser or instruments to remove/cut out cancerous tissue. Radiation: high doses of radioactive materials to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. Chemotherapy: chemicals/drugs to stop the growth or limit the rapid reproduction of cancer cells. Immunotherapy: nutrients or drugs to stimulate (or suppress) immune responses. Transplants: bone marrow or stem cells to remind the body of what healthy cells are like.
The Side Effects of cancer treatment protocols (includes, but aren’t limited to) the following. The most common: nausea; delayed healing; hair loss; nail changes; digestive problems; pain; loss of smell, taste, or weight; fatigue, anxiety and depression.
There are additional side affects that are not as common. Those can include allergic reactions, changes to blood pressure, shock, serious infections, seizures, and visual changes. The more long term problems stemming from cancer treatment are mental problems, increased malignancies, and especially in treatment through chemotherapy, heart attacks. The most profound and permanent affect to cancer intervention therapies is death of the person.
Two simple ways to offset side effects: First we have Diet. High protein and high calorie, with plenty of liquids; in small servings spread throughout the day, rather than two or three larger meals. Suggestions include lean meat (no/low red meat); lots of veggies (especially cruciferous*); whole grain products/fiber; non acidic fruits, juices, and sauces; smoothies, shakes, yogurt, cottage cheese, gravies; and lots of water.
The second of the top-two self care aids in reducing the affects of cancer treatment is energy healing. This includes reiki, healing touch, therapeutic touch, quantum healing or other healing modalities, including meditation and prayer . Many report decreased fatigue, and less mental, physical and emotional stress. It is believed that these self awareness practices bring balance to the body processes and improve the healing response.
What else should be considered in the treatment of cancer? Many report that their taste changes. Not in clothing or music, but their sense of taste. There is immense pleasure in the taste of foods, and many report a loss of this sensation, or a metallic taste. What can you do to help? Provide smaller portions, vent odors, and make sure the food is easy to chew and digest. Have some hard candies available to help stimulate saliva, which will in turn aid digestion. Add a little juice for more flavor.
Last but not least, when working with someone with cancer, whether it is energy work, physical activity, or any other interaction, be gentle, do not overwhelm them, but treat them with grace and allow them time to respond.
