Supplements after chemo and radio, what are you taking?
During the last 18 months, I've been through chemo (FOLFIRINOX), radiation with capecitabine and ADT hormone therapy (Lupron). This treatment was for both rectal cancer and prostate cancer. Currently I'm taking D-3, Biotin, Zinc, B-12, Potassium, Iron and occasionally I'll add some collagen or whey protein for various side effects like neuropathy, bone density loss, skin and nail issues, low red blood cell count, low potassium level, on and on.....
I'm just curious about what supplements people are using in a similar situation. Diet, of course, should be directed at healing as well, but I'm talking about supplements.
Another factor that plays into this is the lack of appetite that most of us experience. I'm trying hard to gain weight and build muscle after losing about 30 pounds, but the ADT has knocked my PSA to undetectable, so I have to wait until my body decides to produce a little testosterone again. I understand that low T prevents muscle development.
Anyhow, I would really like to hear about your experience with various supplements and food.
...oldslowdo
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@johnsmith1580
Hello! Glad to hear you're doing well. My question is who advised you as to what supplements to take? I've had chemo a couple years ago and it definitely aged me (along with the 3 bouts with cancer!). My hair is super thin, skin could use help and the overall wellness aspect! I try to eat healthy, I only have one kidney, so taking supplements scares me.
@2ndjourney My oncology team recommended or prescribed various supplements for specific side effects (biotin for skin and nails, D3 for brain fog... calcium, iron and potassium because of low levels in blood tests, etc).
Other supplements I've added from doing my own (careful) research. I make sure to list them on my medication chart so that the medical team can comment or advise if there are any contraindications or other issues with what I'm taking.
I also try to get the nutrients from my regular diet as much as possible. Salmon is great for D3 and the brain... wasn't a fan before, but have learned to love it!
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3 Reactions@slowdo Thank You very much!!! I've been trying to research all these things since my 2nd bout with cancer (metatized kidney cancer into my maxillary bone). It's so confusing! I will try the biotin and also look into others! Thanks again!
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