Whatever the stage of cancer or cancer treatment, one of the things patients complain about the most is the extreme, cancer-related fatigue which can set in and seem impossible to shake. It can make life much more difficult for those who are already going through a challenging time. However, there are some natural ways that this difficult side effect can be alleviated.
Nutrition
Cancer patients can help fight fatigue through a high-quality diet which is rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, beans, lentils, nuts and oils like olive oil. This will help to provide the levels of protein and calories that patients need to help strengthen their immune system and fight cancer. Proper hydration through drinking plenty of water is also important at this time.
Supplementation
Ginseng, with its ability to boost energy levels and the immune system is a helpful remedy for those suffering from fatigue. Other herbs and supplements which have been shown to help support healthy energy include CoQ10, garlic, flax and Vitamins A, C, D and E. Use of green tea, perhaps not surprisingly, also help alleviate fatigue.
Massage Therapy
Regular sessions of professional massage during cancer treatment has been shown to help alleviate fatigue; it has also been shown to deal with other unpleasant side effects like nausea and depression. This alternative therapy is particularly recommended for patients with mesothelioma or cancers of the breast or ovaries.
Activity
While this sounds counter-intuitive to many, a program of moderate exercise actually helps to enhance energy levels and generally feeling of well-being in cancer patients. However, while this has been shown to combat fatigue, it is best to go slow and steady at first as overexertion can do more harm than good.
Rest
It may sound obvious that rest can help ease the problem of fatigue, but for patients who are battling cancer, getting enough rest can be a serious challenge. Pain can often lead to interrupted sleep and stress over the disease process itself can also disrupt sleeping patterns. Good pain and stress management to help ensure adequate rest is one of the best therapies there is.
Stress Management
The disease process of cancer and its treatments are both major sources of stress. Stress, even under normal circumstances, can reduce energy levels greatly and lead to other feelings like depression. Managing stress, therefore, is a key part to holistic cancer therapy and this can be done through being outside, meditation or prayer or disciplines like yoga or tai chi.
Fatigue is one of the hardest aspects of cancer to deal with on a day to day basis. Fortunately, though, a holistic approach which encompasses nutrition, activity levels, rest and emotional support can help obviate this symptom and improve quality of life during cancer treatment.
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