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Helpful Resources

Books:

Sources of information about complementary and alternative medicine include the following books. Internet resources are also listed below.

Complementary/Alternative/Integrative Medicine: General

  • Cassileth B, Lucarelli C.  Herb-Drug Interactions in Oncology.  Ontario, Canada: BC Decker, 2003.
  • Gordon, Jim and Curtin, Sharon. Comprehensive Cancer Care: Integrating Alternative, Complementary, and Conventional Therapies. Perseus Publishing, 2000.
  • American Cancer Society. American Cancer Society’s Guide to Complementary and Alternative Cancer Methods. Atlanta, GA., American Cancer Society, 2000.
  • Boik, John. Cancer & Natural Medicine: A Textbook of Basic Science and Clinical Research. Princeton, MN, Oregon Medical Press, 2000.
  • Lerner, Ph.D., Michael, Choices in Healing: Integrating the Best of Conventional and Complementary Approaches to Cancer. The MIT Press, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 1994.
  • Stockdale, Brenda. You Can Beat the Odds: The Surprising Factors Behind Chronic Illness and Cancer. Sentient Publications, 2009.
  • American Institute of Cancer. Dietary Phytochemicals in Cancer Prevention & Treatment. New York, Plenum Press, 1996.
  • Crellin JK, Philpott J, editors. Herbal medicine past and present. Volume II. A reference guide to medicinal plants. Duke University Press: Durham and London 1990.
  • Thomson Healthcare. PDR for Herbal Medicine. Thomson Reuters, Montvale, 2007.

Peer Reviewed Journals

The following journals review a variety of alternative/complementary approaches rather than promoting any specific therapies:

 

Internet Resources:

Alternative Medicine

Complementary Therapies

Dietary/Nutrition

 

Dietary Supplements


Education


Government Resources

  

Health

  

Herbal Medicine

  

Pain Management

Oncological Massage

THREE MOST COMMON TYPES:

Swedish:

Most widely recommended for most forms of cancer to promote relaxation and tension relief.


Lymphatic Drainage (MLD):

Highly encouraged for breast, head/neck or any areas of edema once DVT and other risk factors have been “ruled out” by the physician.


Offered at MD Anderson, Sloan Kettering, Piedmont and Emory (performed by Physical Therapists in association with the Casley-Smith Method- 135 CEU’s) and Turning Point Women’s Center.


Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT):

Recommended for pain reduction in specific areas after treatment in smaller increments. Patients need to be informed about the potential for temporary increase in pain and bruising due to more intense nature of the modality.


Offered at MD Anderson, Sloan Kettering and Massage Envy. Piedmont and Emory refer to therapists that are off-site.


  • Increments vary from 5 minutes – 1 ½ hours depending on current treatment plan
  • Chair services are generally complimentary and full-body/site specific are a fee-for- service.
  • Sessions incorporate a combination of different techniques depending on doctor’s protocol.


Resources:

MD Anderson, SIO, Sloan Kettering, Piedmont Wellness Center, Turning Point and Massage Envy (Cumming).  Please note that Massage Envy refers cancer patients to the Turning Point Women’s Center for Breast Cancer.

Nutritional Recommendations

  • Be as lean as possible without becoming overweight.
  • Be physically active for at least 30 minutes every day.
  • Avoid sugary drinks.  Limit consumption of energy dense foods (particularly processed foods high in added sugar, low in fiber, or high in fat).
  • Eat a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes, such as beans.
  • Limit consumption of red meats (such as beef, pork, and lamb) and avoid processed meats.
  • If consumed at all, limit alcoholic drinks to two for men and one for women a day.
  • Limit consumption of salty foods and foods processed with salt (sodium).
  • Do not use supplements to protect against cancer.
  • After treatment, cancer survivors should follow nutritional recommendations for cancer prevention.

Massage Therapy Types

Therapeutic Touch:

A light, subtle form of touch therapy designed to completely relax the body and mind. Therapeutic touch involves work with the hands on or off the body depending on the goal of the session.

Typically admired for its centering properties, this modality has also been to shown to reduce many negative side effects that are associated with treatment and improve overall sense of well-being.

Methods can be performed either seated or lying down and can include breathing exercises, light joint movements and visualization techniques. Loose, comfortable clothing is encouraged. Treatments times range from fifteen to an hour and a half depending on your specific treatment plan.

Gentle Stretching:

A passive form of therapy, Gentle Stretching (light joint movements), can incorporate the necessary techniques to improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, chronic pain and stress relief.

Performed either seated or lying down, clients are encouraged to completely relax while specific areas of the body are stretched lightly. Each session can include passive stretching and gentle yoga modalities combined with deep breathing exercises, positive visualization and helpful relaxation tools to carry into everyday life.

Physician’s recommendation and loose fitting clothing are highly encouraged.

Reflexology:

Based on ancient techniques, Reflexology is a system of trigger points on the feet that are individually correlated to other areas of the body. Treatments provide relaxing effects for enhanced periods of time and are gentle in nature.

This form of therapy is often mistaken for a foot massage but, Reflexology is genuinely designed to detoxify individual areas of the body, cleanse the lymphatic system and calm the mind.

Each session can be performed in twenty to forty five minute intervals with patients either seated or in a reclining position.

Swedish Massage:

Swedish Massage is one of the most gentle forms of therapeutic touch. It involves light manipulation of the superficial muscle layers that provides an overall state of relaxation to the mind and body. Using gentle pressure, in long, fluid strokes it allows for muscle tension to be released and generates improved health and well-being.

This massage technique is the most common and special considerations are taken to ensure that your therapy session is not only safe but structured in conjunction with your physician’s current treatment plan. Treatments are offered in increments of five minutes to an hour and a half depending on your realistic and desired goals.

Lymphatic Massage:

Lymphatic Massage is a subtle form of touch that is designed to aid the Lymphatic System and boost immunity. It is performed using fingertip pressure in slow, soft circular movements. Based on the flow of the lymph system, lymphatic massage can have peaceful, relaxing benefits that enhance the healing process.

Closely adhering to your physician’s and personal guidelines, your Oncology Massage Therapist is dedicated to providing a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. This technique is a natural compliment to current conventional treatment, turning release into positive experience.

Sessions are fifteen to sixty minutes, performed on separate segments of the body individually and applied in a systematic series.

Neuromuscular Massage (NMT):

Based on Trigger Point Therapy, NMT is designed specifically for pain relief and releasing areas of chronic muscle tension. The therapist uses thumb pressure to actively relax and reset muscles therefore improving overall posture and enhanced self awareness.

Often mistaken for Deep Tissue Massage, NMT is a more effective, less intense and has the ability to reduce many systems associated with treatment.

Hand in hand with your doctor, you NMT Oncology therapist can be provide sessions of fifteen to an hour and a half. Specific areas of the body are treated individually each session or as a whole depending on your treatment goals.

Nutritional Information

Eating healthfully during treatment is important to the healing process. Your body needs a wide variety of nutrients to feel good and recover. Although it is safe to eat nutrient-rich foods, such as vegetables and fruit, it may not be safe to take these nutrients as dietary supplements.

Many people feel that if something is natural, such as a vitamin, a mineral, or an herb, it is safe. This is not necessarily true. You may feel that a dietary supplement couldn’t possibly cause problems with your cancer care, but this may not be true either. Some dietary supplements, natural or otherwise, can interact with your cancer medications.

These interactions may make your cancer treatments more toxic to you. This can worsen side effects and may make you very ill. Another possibility is that a dietary supplement may decrease the effectiveness of your cancer treatments. If this happens, medications and procedures may not work as well as they should. You may not get the full benefits of your cancer treatments.

For all of these reasons, it is safest to err on the side of caution during cancer treatment. Do not take any dietary supplements without talking to your doctor first.

Finally, keep in mind that the dietary supplement industry is nearly unregulated. This means there is little quality control in the manufacture of many dietary supplements and nobody is watching over the claims being made about these products. Because of these issues, you may not get what you pay for, the claims about a supplement may not be true or even worse, a contaminated dietary supplement could make you sick.

With your health at stake, it makes sense to discuss any dietary supplements that you currently use or are planning to use with your doctor and your entire health care team.  Remember, you are a member of your health care team, too. Be safe and take care of yourself with the guidance of your health care providers.

Helpful Hints Regarding – Weight Loss & Muscle Wasting

Maintaining adequate nutrition is a crucial part of your cancer treatment. Eating a variety of foods daily from all the foods groups will help you obtain the nutrients you need to maintain your strength, feel better during your treatment, and/or heal any post-operative wounds. However, you may have difficulty consuming some foods either due to the cancer itself or to the side effects of treatment. Therefore, you may need to make some changes to improve your food intake based on your symptoms, as described below. To assure nutrient adequacy, you may be requested to keep a food intake log for a Registered and/or Licensed Dietitian to assess.

  • Make every mouthful count. Eat mostly high protein, high calorie foods.
  • Eat several small, calorie-dense meals and snacks throughout the day. Try eating every 2 to 3 hours. Do not skip meals.
  • Add calories and protein easily by mixing powdered milk into beverages and foods such as meatloaf, casseroles, soups, stews, mashed potatoes, and hot cereals.
  • Always think about what you can add to foods to boost calories and/or protein such as: peanut butter, milk powder, instant breakfast powder, chopped nuts/seeds, dried fruit, margarine, sour cream sauce, gravy, mayonnaise, yogurt, cheese and eggs.
  • Drink commercial supplements, such as Ensure® Plus or Ensure® High Protein between meals.
  • Use higher calorie versions of foods such as whole milk, yogurt, or ice cream with higher fat content.
  • Snack between meals (choose foods like nuts, peanut butter, and crackers, cheese, ice cream, yogurt).

Helpful Hints Regarding – Thick Saliva

Maintaining adequate nutrition is a crucial part of your cancer treatment. Eating a variety of foods daily from all the foods groups will help you obtain the nutrients you need to maintain your strength, feel better during your treatment, and/or heal any post-operative wounds. However, you may have difficulty consuming some foods either due to the cancer itself or to the side effects of treatment. Therefore, you may need to make some changes to improve your food intake based on your symptoms, as described below. To assure nutrient adequacy, you may be requested to keep a food intake log for a Registered and/or Licensed Dietitian to assess.

  • Try rinsing your mouth with baking soda and salt water (1 quart water with 1 teaspoon of baking soda plus 1 teaspoon of salt) or try a mixture of club soda with lemon juice.
  • Drink plenty of fluids to loosen mucous. Drink fluids along with meals and between meals. Drink at least 8-12 cups of liquid each day.
  • Try gargling with ginger ale if mucous sticks in your throat.
  • To thin thick saliva secretions, try very sour (lemon) or very sweet foods to help stimulate saliva flow.
  • Use medications as recommended by your physician.

Helpful Hints Regarding – Taste Alterations

Maintaining adequate nutrition is a crucial part of your cancer treatment. Eating a variety of foods daily from all the foods groups will help you obtain the nutrients you need to maintain your strength, feel better during your treatment, and/or heal any post-operative wounds. However, you may have difficulty consuming some foods either due to the cancer itself or to the side effects of treatment. Therefore, you may need to make some changes to improve your food intake based on your symptoms, as described below. To assure nutrient adequacy, you may be requested to keep a food intake log for a Registered and/or Licensed Dietitian to assess.

  • Tart foods will enhance flavors (for those without a sore mouth or throat). Try orange juice, pickles, lemons, limes, vinegar, or tomato juice.
  • If you are not tolerating meats very well, try marinating them in fruit juice, sweet wine, Italian dressing, or sweet-sour sauce for more taste; or try meat alternatives such as eggs, cheese, cottage cheese, tofu, vegetarian meat substitutes, yogurt, and peanut butter.
  • Try various seasonings to enhance flavor.
  • Serve foods chilled or at room temperature.
  • Avoid smoking.

Helpful Hints Regarding – Sore Mouth & Throat / Swallowing Difficulty

Maintaining adequate nutrition is a crucial part of your cancer treatment. Eating a variety of foods daily from all the foods groups will help you obtain the nutrients you need to maintain your strength, feel better during your treatment, and/or heal any post-operative wounds. However, you may have difficulty consuming some foods either due to the cancer itself or to the side effects of treatment. Therefore, you may need to make some changes to improve your food intake based on your symptoms, as described below. To assure nutrient adequacy, you may be requested to keep a food intake log for a Registered and/or Licensed Dietitian to assess.

  • Try a softer diet. Use your favorite foods, but make changes that will soften them such as adding extra fluid or cooking longer until a softer texture is achieved.
  • Use a blender. If you like vegetable soups, for example, first heat, and then blend. Food tastes better if it is cooked before being blended and it is easier to blend warm food. A blender is also great for making smoothies: try a peeled banana, vanilla yogurt, peanut butter, and milk powder or instant breakfast powder.
  • Use margarine/butter, gravies, or cream sauces on meats and vegetables.
  • Choose soft foods such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, scrambled or hardboiled eggs (for egg salad), egg custards, ricotta cheese, milkshakes, puddings, gelatins, cooked cereals, or noodle casseroles (macaroni & cheese).
  • Make sure stews, casseroles, and simmered foods are made with extra liquids and cooked longer to make them softer.
  • Avoid acidic foods such as vinegar, citrus fruits, and tomatoes, which can sting and burn. Try fruits that are low in acid such as bananas and canned pears or peaches; try peach, pear and apricot nectars instead of fruit juice.
  • Avoid very salty foods.
  • Avoid hot spices such as pepper, chili powder, nutmeg, or cloves.
  • Avoid rough or coarse foods such as raw fruits or vegetables and bran.
  • Avoid dry foods such as toast or hard breads unless you soak them first (in a gravy or sauce, for example), as they may scratch your mouth and throat.
  • Eat foods at room temperature or cold rather than piping hot.
  • Liquid nutritional supplements such as Ensure® or Ensure® Plus can be used to provide additional calories and nutrients.
  • Use medications as recommended by your physician.

Helpful Hints Regarding – Nausea & Vomiting

Maintaining adequate nutrition is a crucial part of your cancer treatment. Eating a variety of foods daily from all the foods groups will help you obtain the nutrients you need to maintain your strength, feel better during your treatment, and/or heal any post-operative wounds. However, you may have difficulty consuming some foods either due to the cancer itself or to the side effects of treatment. Therefore, you may need to make some changes to improve your food intake based on your symptoms, as described below. To assure nutrient adequacy, you may be requested to keep a food intake log for a Registered and/or Licensed Dietitian to assess.

  • Take your prescribed anti-nausea medication 30-60 minutes before eating.
  • Eat slowly and take small bites or sips.
  • Try a clear liquid diet. Liquids such as apple juice, cranberry juice, lemonade, broth, sports drinks, ginger ale, lemon lime soda, popsicles, gelatin, tea or cola are usually well tolerated.
  • Eat dry foods like toast and crackers, especially after waking in the morning, and preferably even before getting out of bed.
  • Eat smaller portions of foods that are low in fat since they are easier to digest and move through the stomach faster, but eat more often to make up for your calorie and protein needs.
  • Drink a commercial supplement such as Ensure® or Ensure® Plus between meals or as a meal replacement to help meet your nutritional needs.
  • Try salty foods like pretzels or crackers.
  • Limit overly sweet or spicy foods.
  • Eat only solids at meals and liquids between meals. Drink fluids 30-60 minutes before or after eating, but make sure to drink enough fluids. Drink an additional 1/2 -1 cup of liquids for each vomiting episode.
  • Do not lie down flat for at least two hours after eating. It may be helpful to rest after eating since activity can slow digestion and increase feelings of discomfort. If you wish to rest, sit down. If you recline, make sure your head is at least four inches higher than your feet.
  • Reduce nauseating aromas. Choose cold or room-temperature foods, avoid highly aromatic foods (like tuna fish), and create plenty of ventilation (open windows and/or fans) when preparing foods.
  • Eat small, frequent meals (every 2 to 3 hours).
  • Wear loose-fitting clothing and breathe fresh, cool air to help relieve symptoms.
  • Experiment with sour foods such as lemons, sour pickles, sour hard candy or lemon sherbet or sorbet. Rinsing your mouth with a mixture of lemon juice and water, or sucking on fresh lemon wedges may be helpful.
  • Enhance the flavor of foods. Add your favorite mild spices, sugar or salt to foods, but avoid very spicy foods.
  • Add ginger to foods, a natural remedy for nausea – fresh, crystallized or powdered.
  • Choose foods that you tolerate well—you’ll learn by experience.

Helpful Hints Regarding – Loss of Appetite

Maintaining adequate nutrition is a crucial part of your cancer treatment. Eating a variety of foods daily from all the foods groups will help you obtain the nutrients you need to maintain your strength, feel better during your treatment, and/or heal any post-operative wounds. However, you may have difficulty consuming some foods either due to the cancer itself or to the side effects of treatment. Therefore, you may need to make some changes to improve your food intake based on your symptoms, as described below. To assure nutrient adequacy, you may be requested to keep a food intake log for a Registered and/or Licensed Dietitian to assess.

  • Eat several small meals and snacks throughout the day. Avoid eating three large meals a day.
  • Keep nutritious snacks available at all times, even when on-the-go. Leftovers make good snacks. Eat a snack before going to bed.
  • Make every mouthful count. Eat mostly high protein, high calorie foods. To add calories and protein easily, mix powdered milk into foods and beverages or drink commercial supplements, such as Ensure® Plus or Ensure® High Protein between meals.
  • Avoid foods that may be gas forming such as salads, cabbage, broccoli, beans and legumes, carbonated beverages, or beer.
  • Avoid drinking fluids with meals. Fluids can produce an early feeling of fullness in your stomach. Limit fluids with meals to 1/2 cup and drink other liquids two hours before or after a meal.
  • Avoid non-caloric liquids such as coffee, tea, water, diet drinks, broth, etc.
  • Avoid foods with strong odors. Choose cold or room-temperature foods and create plenty of ventilation (open windows and/or fans) when preparing foods.
  • Serve all foods attractively and in a pleasant environment. If desired, eat meals with family and friends. Soft music and a glass of wine may help relax you and stimulate your appetite. Remove all unpleasant stimuli from the environment at mealtime such as the emesis basin, bedpan, loud music, or the TV.
  • Eat when you are hungry even if it is not mealtime.
  • Use medications as recommended by your physician.


Helpful Hints Regarding – Lactose Intolerance

Maintaining adequate nutrition is a crucial part of your cancer treatment. Eating a variety of foods daily from all the foods groups will help you obtain the nutrients you need to maintain your strength, feel better during your treatment, and/or heal any post-operative wounds. However, you may have difficulty consuming some foods either due to the cancer itself or to the side effects of treatment. Therefore, you may need to make some changes to improve your food intake based on your symptoms, as described below. To assure nutrient adequacy, you may be requested to keep a food intake log for a Registered and/or Licensed Dietitian to assess.

  • Avoid your normal usage of milk and milk products containing lactose if you develop abdominal cramping, gas, or diarrhea symptoms. You might be able to tolerate small amounts of ice cream, yogurt, or cheeses.
  • Use lactose-free milk substitutes such as soy milk, non-dairy creamers, or lactose-free milk.
  • Try over-the-counter pills for improving your tolerance of dairy products (Lactaid®).
  • Try lactose-free, commercial liquid nutritional supplements such as Ensure® or Ensure® Plus.

Helpful Hints Regarding – Gas Problems

Maintaining adequate nutrition is a crucial part of your cancer treatment. Eating a variety of foods daily from all the foods groups will help you obtain the nutrients you need to maintain your strength, feel better during your treatment, and/or heal any post-operative wounds. However, you may have difficulty consuming some foods either due to the cancer itself or to the side effects of treatment. Therefore, you may need to make some changes to improve your food intake based on your symptoms, as described below. To assure nutrient adequacy, you may be requested to keep a food intake log for a Registered and/or Licensed Dietitian to assess.

  •  Avoid gas-producing foods such as cabbage, carbonated beverages (including beer), onions, green peppers, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, and dried beans and peas.
  • Eat slowly and chew well.
  • Try anti-gas medications as directed by your physician.

Helpful Hints Regarding – Feeling of Fullness

Maintaining adequate nutrition is a crucial part of your cancer treatment. Eating a variety of foods daily from all the foods groups will help you obtain the nutrients you need to maintain your strength, feel better during your treatment, and/or heal any post-operative wounds. However, you may have difficulty consuming some foods either due to the cancer itself or to the side effects of treatment. Therefore, you may need to make some changes to improve your food intake based on your symptoms, as described below. To assure nutrient adequacy, you may be requested to keep a food intake log for a Registered and/or Licensed Dietitian to assess.

  •  Eat several small meals and snacks throughout the day. Try eating every 2 to 3 hours.
  • Increase the volume of food you eat a little each day, gradually working up to your previous intake, which may take several weeks.
  • Limit fried and greasy foods, butter, and rich sauces if they make you feel worse.
  • Make sure that the liquids you drink have nutritional value. Include juices, milk, milkshakes or commercial supplements such as Ensure® or Ensure® Plus. Avoid diet sodas.
  • Limit the amount of liquid you drink with meals to keep from feeling full (unless needed to aid swallowing).
  • Select foods that are more concentrated sources of calories to make every bite count, for example, whole milk, casseroles, bananas, cheese, and cream soups.

Helpful Hints Regarding – Dry Mouth

Maintaining adequate nutrition is a crucial part of your cancer treatment. Eating a variety of foods daily from all the foods groups will help you obtain the nutrients you need to maintain your strength, feel better during your treatment, and/or heal any post-operative wounds. However, you may have difficulty consuming some foods either due to the cancer itself or to the side effects of treatment. Therefore, you may need to make some changes to improve your food intake based on your symptoms, as described below. To assure nutrient adequacy, you may be requested to keep a food intake log for a Registered and/or Licensed Dietitian to assess.

  • A lack of saliva may make meat, bread products, and other dry foods difficult to eat. Serve these foods with extra gravies or sauces, or soak them in liquids (dip toast or cookies in tea, cocoa or milk, for example).
  • Drink liquids along with meals and between meals to keep daily fluid intake as high as possible.
  • Eat foods with high water content as tolerated such as watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew melon and grapes.
  • Limit caffeine-containing products and alcoholic beverages, which are diuretics.
  • Chewing gum and sour candies may stimulate the flow of saliva (sugar-free to reduce the risk of dental cavities).
  • Lemons contain citric acid, and can stimulate saliva. Unless you have a sore throat or mouth, try tea or water with lemon, lemonade, lemon candy, or simply suck on a fresh lemon wedge.
  • Suck on frozen grapes, popsicles or ice chips.
  • Avoid mouthwashes and mouth rinses that contain alcohol.
  • Rinse mouth frequently with “normal” saline solution (1-quart water and 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon salt).
  • Artificial saliva or oral moisturizers may be helpful. Ask your physician.
  • Avoid licking your lips. This increases dryness and chapping.

Helpful Hints Regarding – Diarreha

Maintaining adequate nutrition is a crucial part of your cancer treatment. Eating a variety of foods daily from all the foods groups will help you obtain the nutrients you need to maintain your strength, feel better during your treatment, and/or heal any post-operative wounds. However, you may have difficulty consuming some foods either due to the cancer itself or to the side effects of treatment. Therefore, you may need to make some changes to improve your food intake based on your symptoms, as described below. To assure nutrient adequacy, you may be requested to keep a food intake log for a Registered and/or Licensed Dietitian to assess.

  • Eat less fiber, which is the fibrous material in food that is not digested and is passed in bowel movements. If your intestines are irritated, the fiber in your regular diet may be too much for them.
  • Use only cooked fruits and vegetables, avoiding those that are raw.
  • Choose refined grains and cereals such as white bread, white rice, corn flakes, and cream of rice. Avoid high fiber cereals (e.g., bran), and whole grains such as cooked oats, brown rice, and whole wheat bread.
  • Avoid foods with seeds such as berries and popcorn.
  • Avoid foods with tough skins or stalks such as cooked dry beans and legumes, broccoli, celery and corn.
  • Peel tough skins from fruits such as apples and pears before eating.
  • Avoid fatty, highly spiced foods if you find they cause you problems.
  • Potassium is an important mineral in your body and is lost in great quantities when you have diarrhea, which can leave you feeling very weak. Be sure to eat foods that are high in potassium such as: bananas, apricot or peach nectar, fish, potatoes, and meat. If you are unable to eat these foods, your physician may prescribe potassium supplements.
  • Eat several small meals and snacks throughout the day. Avoid eating three large meals a day.
  • Drink liquids between meals instead of with them. Make sure you drink plenty of liquid, since diarrhea causes you to lose fluids and electrolytes (sodium and potassium). Try juices diluted with water, but avoid milk or milk products until the diarrhea has stopped.
  • Liquids should be consumed at room temperature or warmed.
  • Decrease or avoid milk and milk products if they are bothersome. Try lactose-free or lactose-reduced products such as Lactaid®. Some commercial supplements such as Ensure® are also lactose-free.
  • Boiled rice, cream of rice cereal, bananas, dry toast, and potato may help control diarrhea.
  • Use medications as recommended by your physician.

Helpful Hints Regarding – Constipation

Maintaining adequate nutrition is a crucial part of your cancer treatment. Eating a variety of foods daily from all the foods groups will help you obtain the nutrients you need to maintain your strength, feel better during your treatment, and/or heal any post-operative wounds. However, you may have difficulty consuming some foods either due to the cancer itself or to the side effects of treatment. Therefore, you may need to make some changes to improve your food intake based on your symptoms, as described below. To assure nutrient adequacy, you may be requested to keep a food intake log for a Registered and/or Licensed Dietitian to assess.

  • Add fiber to your diet by increasing your intake of raw fruits and vegetables, whole grains and cereals, beans and legumes, and nuts.
  • Make substitutions: choose whole wheat bread vs. refined bread; cooked oats vs. cream of rice; raisin bran vs. corn flakes; fresh pear vs. canned pears; raw broccoli vs. cooked broccoli; or navy bean soup vs. cream of mushroom soup.
  • Add fiber-rich toppings: garbanzo beans or nuts on salads; spinach dip on raw vegetables; unprocessed bran or ground flax seed on yogurt; and dried cranberries or raisins on cereal.
  • Increase fluid intake:
    • Drink liquids along with meals and between meals to keep daily fluid intake as high as possible.
    • Eat foods with high water content such as watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew melon and grapes.
  • Try to keep active by walking regularly (or engaging in some other physical activity you enjoy), even for just 10 minutes at a time.
  • Use medications as recommended by your physician.

Discover The Power Of The Mind To Heal

We understand that the stress and lifestyle changes resulting from a cancer diagnosis can be profound. It is our goal to make your treatment and recovery as stress-free as possible. As an adjunct to treatment, our cutting edge programs in mind-body medicine are nationally recognized and offer a dynamic and scientific approach to promoting optimal immunity. Going far beyond traditional support groups, our 6-week program instructs you in developing the tools, skills and strategies proven to positively influence immune function. We recommend this educational series to all our patients and their families as an important component of the road to recovery and to even higher levels of wellness.

In our 6-week mind-body medical program you will discover—

  • How to turn stress into strength. You’ll learn how stress hormones affect immunity and more importantly, how to reduce harmful levels on demand
  • How to boost immunity in everyday life. You’ll explore self-care techniques that help you maximize your health, regain a sense of control, optimism, energy and well-being.
  • Surprising risk factors—greater than smoking, diet or cholesterol—and what to do about them.
  • Why DNA is not your destiny. Your genetic inheritance isn’t as fixed as you might imagine and you’ll see how the latest research in epigenetics can benefit you
  • Help prevent reoccurrence, and most importantly, enjoy a happier, more vital life

 If you or someone you love has been touched by cancer our 6-week program in mind-body medicine can enrich your life and leave you feeling empowered for whatever the future may bring!

“This [program] in and of itself, is a prescription for maximizing one’s health.” –Anne Webster, PhD, Benson-Henry Institute for Mind-Body Medicine, Harvard Medical School

“…a superb and empowering series of strategies for those undergoing a journey through cancer.” –Andrew Salner, MD FACR, Director, Helen & Harry Gray Cancer Center, Hartford Hospital

About Brenda Stockdale: Her programs have been implemented in cancer centers, hospital settings, and primary care practices, and endorsed by leading cancer specialists and other physicians. She is the author of “You Can Beat the Odds: Surprising Factors Behind Chronic Illness & Cancer,” acclaimed by Harvard scientists, physicians and epidemiologists as “the health book to read this year.” For more information regarding our seminars please contact Brenda at 678.393.0066 or visit her website at www.brendastockdale.com.

Acupuncture

A complimentary therapy, Acupuncture has become widely used in cancer treatment and research hospitals across the country. This integral aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine dates back over 2000 years and involves the manual stimulation of pre-established acupressure points that are theorized to be directly correlated to internal organs.

Acupuncture is based on the theory of moving Qi (Chi) along the Energy Meridians that flow through the body. It is believed that when these channels/points are blocked disease occurs. By relieving these blockages, Qi is able to flow and normal health can be restored. This modality can also be very relaxing due to its extremely subtle nature.

With the use of very thin needles, heat, pressure or electricity to encourage a therapeutic effect, Acupuncture has the ability to reduce the symptoms and side effects that accompany conventional cancer treatment. The NIH has conducted clinical trials and concluded that acupuncture has been effective in reducing pain and nausea.

Atlanta Business Radio Interviews Dr. James Benton of Radiotherapy Centers of Georgia

On Wednesday May 19th, The Atlanta Business Radio show opened with Dr. James Benton of Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia. Since prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer among men Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia has been helping men mange this treatable disease for over 30 years. They specialize in ProstRcision which has a 10 year cure rate of 88% which makes it one of the best prostate cancer treatment options available today. To learn more please go to www.curingprostatecancer.com or www.rccancercenters.com.

To hear the interview please click here: http://atlantabusinessradio.libsyn.com/index.php?post_id=616551

New Integrative Oncology Wellness Program Available

Atlanta, Georgia (April 9th, 2010) – Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia (RCOG), a division of Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia launched a new Integrative Oncology Wellness Program designed to improve the quality of life for cancer patients by strengthening the mind and body connection.

“Too many people treat the cancer and then send the patient on their way,” said Chad Levitt, M.D., medical director of Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia in Cumming. “At RCOG, we know that if we treat the ‘whole body’ and provide patients with the tools they need to have a more positive outlook it will improve their quality of life and the treatment experience.”

The Integrative Oncology Wellness Program enables trained experts in the fields of massage therapy, mind-body (epigenetics), and nutrition to join with RCOG’s physicians, caregivers, nurses, therapists, physicists, and dosimetrists, along with a patient’s family and caregivers, to offer an integrative or holistic approach to cancer treatment.

The new massage therapy program features experts offering various types of massage, including: gentle stretch; lymphatic; neuromuscular; reflexology; Swedish; and therapeutic touch.

The mind-body (epigenetics) program helps patients learn how to bring forward the elements within their mind and body that can help them manage the stress levels they face while reducing the ill effects of this stress and reaping the positive benefits on the immune system.

The nutrition program provides access to counseling with a registered dietitian who helps patients develop a plan that can help them stay strong while undergoing treatment and lessen the side effects associated with treatment.

The education program helps patients learn about cancer prevention and detection; find out more about a cancer diagnosis; understand clinical research; address survivorship issues; and locate additional support resources.

The Integrative Oncology Wellness Program is now available at the Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia North Georgia office located at 1055 Haw Creek Parkway, Cumming, Georgia 30041. Phone: 678-947-0457. RCOG will expand the program to other locations during 2010 and services will vary by location. For more information call the Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia – North Georgia office at 678-947-0457 or visit rccancercenters.com/wellness.

Stegenga + PARTNERS Selected to Renovate the Flagship Clinic of Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia

Alpharetta, Georgia (May 12, 2010)—Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia (Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia) has chosen Stegenga + PARTNERS to renovate their 15,000 square foot flagship clinic in Decatur, Georgia into the region’s premier patient-centered radiation therapy cancer center.

Stegenga + PARTNERS enjoys an international reputation for the design of patient-centered, leading-edge healthcare facilities, emphasizing evidenced-based planning with clinical indicators and economic outcomes that reward quality measures and productivity.

The renovated RC Center will be a state-of-the-art facility that integrates cancer treatment, research, and education into a single location. “Each space will be designed for positive human interaction. We are working to create a hassle-free environment that will diminish stress for patients, families, and staff in a noninstitutional setting” explains Paul W. Stegenga, AIA.

“Blending the needs of various providers with the expectations of a diverse patient population produces a collaborative spirit that rejuvenates all who enter.”

A softened contemporary interior incorporates natural elements. Design amenities, such as vaulted ceilings, healing gardens, nutrition stations, and day lighting into key areas, provide patients with a sense of healing, wellness, comfort, and hope.

Over the past 30 years, the physicians of Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia have treated more than 12,500 men for prostate cancer with a procedure called ProstRcision® (pronounced PROS-ter-si-shun). The foundation of the ProstRcision treatment program is centered on long-term research focused on the cure of prostate cancer.

Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia physicians have written over 80 research papers published in peer-reviewed medical journals or presented at medical conferences and is the oldest and one of the largest seed implant programs for prostate cancer in the United States, with patients who have traveled to its treatment center from all 50 states and over 40 countries to cure their prostate cancer.

Learn more at:

http://www.snp-studio.com/projects/physician-based-healthcare/radiotherapy-centers-georgia-decatur-campus


Radiation Centers Keep Strict Guidelines

LAWRENCEVILLE (May 4, 2010)— The Food and Drug Administration has urged health care leaders to raise the bar when it comes to radiation therapy safety, and Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia agrees.

The organization, with offices in Lawrenceville and Snellville, says it already does so.

“We adhere to the strictest quality assurance metrics,” said Dr. Philip Shrake, the Gwinnett medical director for RCOG. “Each step in the treatment process is analyzed to reduce treatment error and ensure patient safety.”

Last month, the FDA issued a letter to 93 makers of radiation treatment devices, stating that it had received almost 1,200 complaints in the last decade about devices that over-dosed, under-dosed or misaligned while treating cancer patients.

Shrake stressed that patients at Gwinnett branches of RCOG have nothing to be worried about.

“We’re committed to providing patients with the most advanced technology and state of the art equipment available,” he said. “Our team receives comprehensive training and completes certification programs to ensure accurate dosage and deliver of radiation therapy at all of our locations.”

According to the FDA, the most frequent problems reported were computer software issues.

“FDA believes these steps and early communication between the FDA and manufacturers will help mitigate current risks,” the organization’s letter read.

Reporter: By Tyler Estep, Staff Writer, Gwinnett Daily Post


‘Tuesday Night Lecture Series’ Course Offerings for June

Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia (RCOG), a division of Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia, has announced the details of their Tuesday Night Lecture Series courses to be presented in June. The courses enable consumers to become better educated about their health and learn more about the latest in radiation therapy options.

All Tuesday Night Lecture Series courses are offered free to the public and begin with a light dinner at 5 p.m. followed by a lecture beginning at 5:30 p.m. Classes are presented at the Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia Auditorium located at 2339 Lawrenceville Highway, Decatur, GA 30033.

For more information on the Tuesday Night Lecture Series or to RSVP for a specific class, please call 404-633-5606, ext. 320.

Tuesday Night Lecture Series include:

Tuesday, June 1, 5:30 p.m.

“PSA Bounce” – Philip Shrake, M.D., explains the temporary benign rise in prostate-specific antigens (PSA), a protein produced by the cells of the prostate gland which can be used to detect prostate cancer.


Tuesday, June 8, 5:30 p.m.

“Image-Guided Radiation Therapy” – Mark L. Merlin, M.D., presents an in-depth explanation of the image-guided treatment setup used in radiation therapy.


Tuesday, June 15, 5:30 p.m.

“RCOG Database” – Chad Levitt, M.D., shares information about the treatment database, containing information about 12,500 men who have been treated for prostate cancer. The database, one of the most comprehensive in the nation, enables men and their physicians to determine the prostate cancer treatment method that gives them the best chance of a cure.


Tuesday, June 22, 5:30 p.m.

“Q&A on PSA and Gleason Scores” – Gary Stillwagon, M.D., coordinates an open discussion on the importance of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening, Gleason scoring and the differences between clinical and pathologic staging.


Tuesday, June 29, 5:30 p.m.

“The History of ProstRcision” – Frank Critz, M.D., will discuss ProstRcision®, a unique technique for curing prostate cancer that has the industry’s highest documented cure rate of 83 percent. He will shed light on the original procedure and its development through the years.



Radiotherapy Centers of Georgia Awarded Accreditation from Joint Commission

ATLANTA (April 29, 2010) – By demonstrating compliance with The Joint Commission‘s national standards for health care quality and safety, Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia (RCOG), a division of Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia, has earned the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval™ in ambulatory care.

“We have been accredited through JCAHO since 1998. While this is not a requirement for our company, we seek accreditation every 3 years, because we want to demonstrate our continued commitment to patient safety and quality care,” said Tammy Hamlin, Director of Quality. “We operate each and every day as if there were a surveyor at our facilities. We view retaining and obtaining Joint Commission accreditation as another step toward continued excellence.”

Founded in 1979, RCOG has earned a reputation for being one of the country’s top cancer treatment and research facilities. With their commitment to quality, use of the latest radiation technology and research focus, RCOG treats men and women with different types of cancer, including breast, prostate, lung, colon, lymphatic and others.

“RCOG’s accreditation achievement is a demonstration of the organization’s leadership and staff commitment to excellence,” said Tammy Hamlin, Director of Quality. “Joint Commission accreditation requires organization-wide dedication to providing safe, patient-focused care, treatment and services.”

The accreditation award recognizes RCOG’s dedication to complying with the Joint Commission’s state-of-the-art standards for quality and safety of care on a continuous basis.

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About the Joint Commission

Founded in 1951, The Joint Commission seeks to continuously improve the safety and quality of care provided to the public through the provision of health care accreditation and related services that support performance improvement in health care organizations. The Joint Commission evaluates and accredits more than 15,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States, including more than 8,000 hospitals and home care organizations, and more than 6,800 other health care organizations that provide long term care, assisted living, behavioral health care, laboratory and ambulatory care services. The Joint Commission also accredits health plans, integrated delivery networks, and other managed care entities. In addition, The Joint Commission provides certification of disease-specific care programs, primary stroke centers, and health care staffing services. An independent, not-for-profit organization, The Joint Commission is the nation’s oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in health care.