ANTIOXIDANTS
Antioxidants are natural substances that protect the body against free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells and DNA. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by donating an electron, thus reducing oxidative stress. Some commonly used antioxidants in cancer treatment include alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), beta-carotene, bioflavonoids, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), glutathione, melatonin, tocotrienols, and vitamins A, C, and E. While antioxidant therapy has been shown to be beneficial in some cases, it can also interfere with certain chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapy. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any antioxidant supplements during cancer treatment.
Reference: Lobo, V., Patil, A., Phatak, A., & Chandra, N. (2010). Free radicals, antioxidants and functional foods: Impact on human health. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 4(8), 118–126. https://doi.org/10.4103/0973-7847.70902
ALPHA LIPOIC ACID (ALA)/LIPOIC ACID
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), also known as lipoic acid, is an antioxidant that is produced naturally by the body and can also be found in certain foods such as spinach, broccoli, and potatoes. ALA has been studied for its potential role in cancer treatment due to its ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. ALA has also been shown to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, while reducing their side effects. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of ALA on cancer treatment. ALA may interact with certain medications, so it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking ALA supplements.
Reference: Packer, L., Witt, E. H., & Tritschler, H. J. (1995). Alpha-lipoic acid as a biological antioxidant. Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 19(2), 227-250. https://doi.org/10.1016/0891-5849(95)00017-R
BETA-CAROTENE/ALPHA-CAROTENE
Beta-carotene and alpha-carotene are carotenoids, which are pigments that give fruits and vegetables their bright colors. Both beta-carotene and alpha-carotene are converted to vitamin A in the body and have antioxidant properties. Some studies suggest that consuming foods high in carotenoids may reduce the risk of certain cancers, including lung cancer. However, taking high doses of beta-carotene supplements has been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer in smokers. Therefore, it is important to obtain beta-carotene and alpha-carotene from a healthy diet rather than supplements.
Reference: Huang, C. S., Fan, Y. Y., & Davidge, S. T. (2005). Beta-carotene and lung cancer in smokers: Review of hypotheses and status of research. Nutrition Reviews, 63(9), 331–337. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1753-4887.2005.tb00133.x
BIOFLAVONOIDS
Bioflavonoids, also known as flavonoids, are a diverse group of plant compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some bioflavonoids, such as quercetin and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), have been studied for their potential anticancer effects. Quercetin, found in onions, apples, and tea, has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and reduce inflammation. EGCG, found in green tea, has been shown to induce cell death in cancer cells and inhibit tumor growth. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal doses and potential side effects of bioflavonoid supplements in cancer treatment.
Reference: Calderón-Montaño, J. M., Burgos-Morón, E., Pérez-Guerrero, C., & López-Lázaro, M. (2011). A review on the dietary flavonoid kaempferol. Mini-Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry, 11(4), 298-344. https://doi.org/10.2174/138955711795305335
CARNITINE/LEVOCARNITINE
Carnitine, also known as levocarnitine, is an amino acid that is involved in the transportation of fatty acids into the mitochondria, the powerhouses of the cells, for energy production. Levocarnitine supplements have been studied for their potential role in cancer treatment, particularly in reducing the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Levocarnitine has been shown to reduce fatigue, improve quality of life, and prevent muscle wasting in cancer patients. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of levocarnitine on cancer treatment.
Reference: Cruciani, R. A., Dvorkin, E., Homel, P., Culliney, B., Malamud, S., Lapin, J., & Portenoy, R. K. (2006). L-carnitine supplementation for the treatment of fatigue and depressed mood in cancer patients with carnitine deficiency: A preliminary analysis. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1033(1), 168-176. https://doi.org/10.1196/annals.1320.015
CONJUGATED LINOLEIC ACID (CLA)
Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is a type of omega-6 fatty acid found in meat and dairy products. CLA supplements have been studied for their potential role in cancer prevention and treatment. Some studies suggest that CLA may have anticancer effects by inhibiting the growth and metastasis of cancer cells. However, other studies have shown conflicting results, and more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CLA on cancer treatment.
Reference: Song, H. J., Grant, I., & Rotondo, D. (2015). Effect of conjugated linoleic acid on the growth and metastasis of human breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231) in female nude mice. Anticancer Research, 35(4), 1941-1950. https://doi.org/10.21873/anticanres.9675
CO-ENZYME Q10/COENZYME Q/COQ10/UBIQUINONE/STOCKHOLM PROTOCOL CANCER TREATMENT/Q-GEL®
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), also known as ubiquinone, is a naturally occurring substance that is involved in the production of energy within cells. CoQ10 supplements have been studied for their potential role in cancer treatment, particularly in reducing the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Some studies suggest that CoQ10 may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and may improve the immune response in cancer patients. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CoQ10 on cancer treatment.
Reference: Varghese, S., Griffiths, H. R., & Ketheesan, N. (2018). Coenzyme Q10 as a potential immunostimulant in cancer chemotherapy. Nutrients, 10(9), 1-11. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10091192
GAMMA LINOLENIC ACID (GLA)/BORAGE OIL/EVENING PRIMROSE OIL/EURASIAN BLACK CURRANT OIL
Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid found in several plant-based oils, including borage oil, evening primrose oil, and Eurasian black currant oil. GLA supplements have been studied for their potential role in cancer prevention and treatment, particularly in breast cancer. Some studies suggest that GLA may have anti-cancer effects by inhibiting the growth and proliferation of cancer cells, reducing inflammation, and enhancing the immune system. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of GLA on cancer treatment.
Reference: Mirzaei, H., Masoudifar, A., Sahebkar, A., Zare, N., Sadri Nahand, J., Rashidi, B., & Mirzaei, H. R. (2018). MicroRNA: A novel target of curcumin in cancer therapy. Journal of Cellular Physiology, 233(5), 3004-3015. https://doi.org/10.1002/jcp.26019
GLUTATHIONE
Glutathione is a naturally occurring antioxidant found in many fruits, vegetables, and meats. It is also available as a supplement and has been studied for its potential role in cancer prevention and treatment. Glutathione has been shown to have anti-cancer effects by reducing oxidative stress, enhancing immune function, and promoting apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells. Some studies suggest that glutathione supplementation may enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and reduce the side effects of radiation therapy. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of glutathione on cancer treatment.
Reference: Liu, J., Wang, X., Wang, H., Yin, X., Li, Z., Deng, M., & Liu, J. (2017). Glutathione metabolism contributes to the embryonic stem cell antiviral response to hepatitis B virus. Antioxidants & Redox Signaling, 27(3), 142-157. https://doi.org/10.1089/ars.2016.6711
GLYCONUTRIENTS, GLYCOPROTEINS, GLYCOBIOLOGY
Glyconutrients, glycoproteins, and glycobioogy refer to a group of complex carbohydrates that are involved in a wide range of biological processes in the body. These carbohydrates are important components of the extracellular matrix, cell membranes, and various secretions, including mucins and glycoproteins. Some studies suggest that glyconutrients may have anti-cancer effects by modulating immune function and reducing inflammation. However, the evidence for the effectiveness of glyconutrients in cancer treatment is still limited and more research is needed to fully understand their potential role.
Reference: Minkoff, R. (2003). The glucosamine controversy. Journal of the American Nutraceutical Association, 6(2), 27-33.
MELATONIN
Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland and plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s circadian rhythm. Studies have shown that melatonin has oncostatic properties that inhibit the growth of cancer cells, induce apoptosis, and increase the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It also has antioxidant properties that reduce oxidative damage and inflammation caused by chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Melatonin also helps alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea and vomiting. While melatonin has shown promising results in cancer treatment, further studies are needed to determine its effectiveness and optimal dosage.
Reference: Reiter, R. J., Rosales-Corral, S., Tan, D. X., & Acuna-Castroviejo, D. (2017). Melatonin, a full-service anti-cancer agent: Inhibition of initiation, progression and metastasis. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 18(4), 843. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18040843
MONOTERPENES
Monoterpenes are natural compounds found in essential oils, fruits, and vegetables. They have shown anticancer properties by inhibiting tumor growth, promoting apoptosis, and inhibiting angiogenesis. Monoterpenes also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can prevent oxidative damage and inflammation associated with cancer. In addition, they can enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. While research on monoterpenes as a cancer treatment is still in its early stages, they have shown promising results and have the potential to be used as an adjuvant therapy for cancer.
Reference: Dhiman, N., Aggarwal, N., & Koul, A. (2018). Monoterpenes as potential anticancer agents. Journal of Clinical and Experimental Oncology, 7(3), 74-79. https://doi.org/10.4172/2324-9110.1000208
THEANINE
Theanine is an amino acid found in tea leaves, particularly green tea. It has shown anticancer properties by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and inducing apoptosis. Theanine also has antioxidant properties that reduce oxidative damage and inflammation caused by chemotherapy and radiation therapy. In addition, it can improve the immune system’s response to cancer. While theanine has shown promising results in cancer treatment, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness and optimal dosage.
Reference: Vuong, Q. V., Bowyer, M. C., Roach, P. D., & Llewellyn, L. E. (2011). Theanine: Plant-derived amino acid that exhibits diverse physiological effects. In P. C. Agrawal (Ed.), Dietary Supplements (pp. 75-92). InTech. https://doi.org/10.5772/17507
TOCOTRIENOLS (A CLASS OF VITAMIN E COMPOUNDS)
Tocotrienols are a class of vitamin E compounds found in palm oil, rice bran, and barley. They have shown anticancer properties by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and inducing apoptosis. Tocotrienols also have antioxidant properties that reduce oxidative damage and inflammation caused by chemotherapy and radiation therapy. In addition, they can enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. While tocotrienols have shown promising results in cancer treatment, more research is needed to determine their effectiveness and optimal dosage.
Reference: Yap, W. N., Zaiden, N., Luk, W. N., & Yap, Y. L. (2013). Tocotrienols suppress growth of early-stage human breast cancer cells irrespective of estrogen receptor status. International Journal of Cancer, 133
THE B VITAMINS
The B vitamins, including thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, biotin, folic acid, and cobalamin, play crucial roles in cellular metabolism and DNA synthesis. Several studies have suggested that B vitamins may reduce the risk of cancer and improve cancer prognosis by supporting DNA repair, modulating immune function, and reducing inflammation. However, the evidence is mixed, and some studies have shown that high doses of certain B vitamins, such as folic acid, may increase the risk of cancer. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking B vitamin supplements for cancer prevention or treatment.
Reference: Ulrich, C. M., & Potter, J. D. (2006). Folate supplementation: too much of a good thing for cancer prevention?. Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Biomarkers, 15(2), 189-193.
URSODEOXYCHOLIC ACID (UDCA)
Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a bile acid naturally produced by the liver and commonly used to treat liver and gallbladder diseases. UDCA has also been shown to have anti-cancer properties, including inducing apoptosis, inhibiting angiogenesis, and reducing inflammation. UDCA has been studied in various types of cancer, including colorectal, pancreatic, and breast cancer, with promising results. UDCA is generally well-tolerated, and its side effects are usually mild, including diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. However, further research is needed to determine the optimal dose and duration of UDCA treatment for cancer patients.
Reference: Xie, X., Tao, Q., & Xie, Z. (2019). Ursodeoxycholic acid inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis of colon cancer cells through regulating IGF1/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Bioscience reports, 39(5), BSR20190179.
VITAMIN A/EMULSIFIED VITAMIN A/VITAMIN A PALMITATE/ RETINOIDS/RETINOL/ACCUTANE
Vitamin A is an essential nutrient for vision, reproduction, and immune function. Retinoids, including retinol and retinoic acid, are derivatives of vitamin A and have been shown to have anti-cancer properties by inducing cell differentiation and apoptosis, inhibiting angiogenesis, and reducing inflammation. However, excessive intake of vitamin A or retinoids may increase the risk of cancer, particularly lung cancer in smokers. Accutane, a synthetic retinoid commonly used to treat acne, has been linked to an increased risk of birth defects and depression and is not recommended for pregnant women or those with a history of mental illness. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking vitamin A or retinoid supplements for cancer prevention or treatment.
Reference: Chapell, R., & Waterbor, J. W. (2019). Vitamin A: too much of a good thing for cancer prevention?. Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Biomarkers, 28(9), 1449-1456.
VITAMIN B17
Vitamin B17, also known as amygdalin or laetrile, is a substance that has been marketed as a natural cancer treatment. It is found in the kernels of apricots, apples, and other fruits, as well as in bitter almonds. Proponents of vitamin B17 claim that it can selectively target cancer cells and destroy them without harming healthy cells. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, and some studies have shown that amygdalin can be converted to cyanide in the body, which can cause serious harm or even death. The American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute do not endorse the use of vitamin B17 as a cancer treatment. Therefore, it is important to rely on evidence-based cancer treatments and to avoid unproven and potentially harmful remedies.
Reference: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. (2022). Amygdalin. Retrieved from https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/amygdalin
VITAMIN B17 METABOLIC THERAPY/HAROLD MANNER
Vitamin B17 metabolic therapy, also known as the Manner metabolic therapy, is a controversial alternative cancer treatment developed by Harold Manner. The therapy involves a strict diet consisting of raw fruits and vegetables, supplements of vitamin B17, and pancreatic enzymes. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the efficacy of vitamin B17 metabolic therapy for cancer treatment, and the therapy may be harmful to cancer patients by interfering with standard cancer treatments and causing malnutrition. The American Cancer Society and the FDA have warned against the use of vitamin B17 metabolic therapy for cancer treatment.
Reference: American Cancer Society. (2021). Vitamin B17. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/complementary-and-alternative-medicine/dietary-supplements/vitamin-b17.html
VITAMIN B3/NIACIN
Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, plays a critical role in energy metabolism, DNA repair, and cellular signaling. Studies have shown that high doses of niacin may have anti-cancer properties by inducing cell death and inhibiting tumor growth. Niacin has also been shown to reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as skin cancer and colon cancer, particularly in individuals with a low dietary intake of niacin. However, high doses of niacin may cause side effects, including flushing, itching, and liver damage, and may interact with certain medications, including chemotherapy drugs. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking niacin supplements for cancer prevention or treatment.
Reference: Hoffer, L. J., & Levine, M. (2018). Vitamin B3 niacin: from nutrition to pharmacotherapy. Medical Science Monitor, 24, 5965-5972.
VITAMIN C/ASCORBIC ACID/ASCORBATE
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid or ascorbate, is a potent antioxidant that plays a critical role in immune function and collagen synthesis. High-dose intravenous vitamin C therapy has been studied as a complementary cancer treatment, as it has been shown to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation therapy and reduce their side effects. Vitamin C may also have anti-cancer properties by inducing cell death, inhibiting tumor growth, and reducing inflammation. However, the evidence is mixed, and further research is needed to determine the optimal dose and duration of vitamin C therapy for cancer patients.
Reference: Carr, A. C., & Cook, J. (2018). Intravenous vitamin C for cancer therapy—identity, pharmacology, and clinical results. Frontiers in physiology, 9, 809.
VITAMIN D/CHOLECALCIFEROL/CALCITRIOL
Vitamin D, also known as cholecalciferol or calcitriol, plays a critical role in bone health and immune function. Studies have suggested that vitamin D may reduce the risk of certain cancers, including breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer, by regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Vitamin D may also enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation therapy and reduce their side effects. However, the evidence is mixed, and further research is needed to determine the optimal dose and duration of vitamin D therapy for cancer patients. Vitamin D toxicity is rare, but high doses of vitamin D may cause hypercalcemia, which can lead to kidney damage and other complications.
Reference: Feldman, D., Krishnan, A. V., Swami, S., Giovannucci, E., & Feldman, B. J. (2014). The role of vitamin D in reducing cancer risk and progression. Nature Reviews
VITAMIN E/ALPHA TOCOPHERYL SUCCINATE/GAMMA TOCOPHEROL
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals. Alpha-tocopherol succinate and gamma-tocopherol are two forms of vitamin E that have been studied for their potential anti-cancer properties. Alpha-tocopherol succinate has been shown to induce cell death and inhibit tumor growth, while gamma-tocopherol has been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. However, the evidence is mixed, and some studies have suggested that high doses of vitamin E supplements may increase the risk of certain cancers, including prostate cancer. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking vitamin E supplements for cancer prevention or treatment.
Reference: Jiang, Q., & Elson-Schwab, I. (2017). Vitamin E and cancer prevention: studies with γ-tocopherol. Molecular nutrition & food research, 61(1), 1600479.
VITAMIN F/OMEGA 3 FATTY ACIDS
Vitamin F, also known as omega-3 fatty acids, are essential fatty acids that cannot be produced by the body and must be obtained through the diet. Omega-3 fatty acids have been studied for their potential anti-cancer properties, as they have been shown to reduce inflammation, inhibit angiogenesis, and induce cell death. Omega-3 fatty acids may also enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation therapy and reduce their side effects. However, the evidence is mixed, and further research is needed to determine the optimal dose and duration of omega-3 fatty acid therapy for cancer patients. Omega-3 fatty acids may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, and may cause side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, and bleeding.
Reference: Calder, P. C. (2018). Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes. Nutrients, 10(11), 1666.
VITAMIN K/VITAMIN KK2/VITAMIN K3
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a critical role in blood clotting and bone metabolism. Three forms of vitamin K have been studied for their potential anti-cancer properties: vitamin K1 (phylloquinone), vitamin K2 (menaquinone), and vitamin K3 (menadione). Vitamin K1 has been shown to reduce the risk of certain cancers, including liver cancer and prostate cancer, while vitamin K2 has been shown to induce cell death and inhibit tumor growth. Vitamin K3 has been shown to induce cell death and enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. However, high doses of vitamin K supplements may cause side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and jaundice, and may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners.
Reference: Fusaro, M., Gallieni, M., & Rizzo, M. A. (2018). Vitamin K and bone. Clinical cases in mineral and bone metabolism, 15(2), 223.
