SBRT treatment: Any tips about food, drink, supplements?
SBRT treatment in the very near future. Any advice or supplements to take during this time ?
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SBRT treatment in the very near future. Any advice or supplements to take during this time ?
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Prostate Cancer Support Group.
Thanks for this info @heavyphil I am surprised that I got very short list. I was asked to stop my herbal drink. No caffeine (coffee, tea) and no carbonated drinks. I found "unusual" that I need to eat many small meals (read: not my usual full breakfast, lunch, dinner that aren't small meals). Also I told my care team that I regularly move stool in the morning, and I planned to move a second time during the day an hour before SBRT. I was advised to not do the latter.
Not sure I understand their rationale on the pre radiation BM.
I took enemas 4 or 5 during my 25 sessions - one even during since I had a gas bubble that wouldn’t move.
In fact, they make you take an enema for simulation set-up so I don’t get it.
If you’re one of those lucky guys who can have a second BM at will, I don’t see any harm in that either. I would advise further clarification from your team. Best
Phil
I was not required to take any enemas for my 20 sessions of prostate SBRT. There really wasn't much I had to do, except arrive with a full bladder (there was a handout with foods I could limit if I experienced discomfort, which I didn't at the time).
Here is a list of food issues
If you are undergoing SBRT (Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy) for prostate cancer, certain dietary adjustments can help minimize side effects and improve comfort. Foods to avoid include:
• High-fiber foods: Whole grains, nuts, seeds, raw vegetables, and dried fruits, as they can cause bowel irritation and gas.
• Fatty and fried foods: Processed meats (sausage, bacon), fast food, and high-fat dairy like cream and butter.
• Gassy foods: Beans, lentils, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and carbonated drinks.
• Spicy and acidic foods: Hot peppers, chili powder, citrus fruits, and tomato-based products.
• Caffeinated or alcoholic beverages: These can irritate the bladder and bowel.
• Raw or undercooked foods: To reduce the risk of foodborne illness due to a weakened immune system.
Stick to a low-fiber diet with soft, bland foods and stay hydrated to manage side effects effectively. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
North, Sloan Kettering pounded this into our heads every day. Did you eat this? Did you eat that? Did you move your bowels today? It was a very stressful time; all I wanted to hear was that machine turn ON and start its arc around my body. That meant I did everything right that day.
Phil
I take Turkey Tail and Lion's Mane mushroom tea daily. There is evidence that it reduces the likelihood of
metastasis and may also reduce the size of the tumor. (One of these days I will start a discussion on Turkey Tail mushrooms.)
My advice for radiation is learn where all the bathrooms are that you can access on your drive home. Also carry a portable urinal (or wide mouthed jar) with you. There were a number of times when I used the bathroom after radiation and then needed another pit stop just 10 minutes later! (I had a 45 minute drive home).
gshep . You may wish to aquaint yourself with the Phase 3 PACE " B " Trial and the more recent TOFFEE META ANALYSIS - European Association Of Urology .
The latter studies the effectiveness of 2 Fractions of SBRT vs 5 Fractions of SBRT.