Science/Nutrition Lesson?

Rookerbird

I've had four treatments of Doxil, and thankfully the tumors are getting smaller. Out of the blue, I had a vivid mental image of a bunch of dead cancer tissue floating around inside me. I know that the miracles that are our bodies "clean this all up" somehow. But I'm ignorant about how. What are some trustworthy resources for learning more?

How do our bodies process and expel chemo after each cycle?

How do our bodies expel dead cancer cells? How long does it take?

Is there anything I can do nutritionally to speed up the dumping/expelling of the toxic waste? I drink tons of water and take a short daily walk. Are there other things that would help? I've thought about more active exercise (sweat it out?) and/or massage, but friction on the skin is on the Doxil "don't" list.

I know I'm supposed to eat protein to rebuild normal tissue that the chemo killed off, and help my blood counts. What's a good amount to shoot for each day?

-Kathy

mopar

HI, KATHY!
Sounds like you're trying to do everything you can for yourself. I'm of the same mindset.

Well, you're right about the water. I was always told to drink lots of water to flush it through my system. I continued to exercise as much as I was able, which is also good for the lymphatic system, especially since I've had about a total of over 50 lumph nodes removed. Don't have details on the chemo process, so you'll have to research that. As for protein, a good rule of thumb is 1 gram of protein per pound of lean body weight. That would be to at least maintain weight. Aside from that, all of our organs and tissues need protein to repair and rebuild. If you can't handle eating a full meal, you can supplement with a protein shake. Lot's of good products out there, but be sure to choose wisely. And a bit of ice cream in the shake will give you some extra calcium and make it thick and tasty! You can add all sorts of things.

Hope these helps, Kathy. Sending Hugs & Prayers!

Monika