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| can be used to great advantage by cancer patients. Remember that in herbal medicine, each individual's protocol is unique; therefore, these remedies are offered as broad guidelines with general and conservative doses. Seek the advice of a qualified health professional for specific protocols. Unfamiliar supplements (those not available in most health food stores) are listed in the Resources. |
| Loss of Appetite, Weight Loss, Body Wasting |
| Weight loss is one of the most important factors in dealing with cancer and the effects of conventional cancer therapies. It is caused by altered metabolism due to cytokine activity (an increased level of tumor necrosis factor), malabsorption (which always involves diarrhea), and reduction of energy intake. One of the major causes of reduced energy intake is loss of appetite. Pancreatic cancer, in particular, is characterized by progressive weight loss and nutritional deterioration. A recent study has shown that increasing calorie intake can prolong survival for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. 1 For recipes utilizing many of the nutrients listed in this section, see the section on nutritional smoothies in chapter 14. |
| Essential fatty acids, in particular, omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oils and flaxseed oil, have been shown to prevent body wasting (cachexia) in both animal and human studies. Medium-chain triglycerides (derived from coconut oil), another form of fatty acid, are very helpful for those who are suffering from malabsorption. Dose: 1 to 4 tablespoons daily. |
| Low-temperature whey protein will decrease diarrhea, improve amino acid uptake, slow catabolic breakdown, promote muscle growth, enhance glutathione, and aid in the growth of healthy intestinal flora. |
| Dose: 1 to 4 tablespoons daily, blended with juice or yogurt. |
| Digestive herbal bitters, such as boldo, gentian, goldenseal, collinsonia, quassia, dandelion, wormwood, boneset, kola, and alfalfa, can be taken in extract form mixed with water or tea prior to eating. Herbs such as these with bitter properties can aid in the stimulation of various digestive enzymes. |
| Dose: 10 to 60 drops before each meal (depending on the specific herbs used and the individual's constitution). Seek professional guidance for specific herbal compounds. |
| Nux vomica extract is especially suited for people who are very weak and have low vitality and a poor appetite. This extract can only be obtained |
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