Turmeric While On Chemo

Vickilg
Vickilg Member Posts: 281 Member
in Colorectal Cancer #1
I am new to Turmeric and I cannot believe I am after reading so many positive things on the web about it and colorectal cancer. My question is, can I take it while on chemo?

Vicki

Comments

  • jen2012
    jen2012 Member Posts: 1,607 Member
    #2
    We had the same question and
    We had the same question and forgot to ask the Dr on Friday...but I read that you can use it in small amounts for cooking while on chemo. So hard to know what the right thing to do is. Dietician said that antioxidants work against chemo. I have an email address for my husbands oncologist....which I'm sure shes regretting that she gave it to me at this point.....but I usually ask these non urgent questions by email and I will ask to see what she says since ive been using it a lot since his diagnosis.
  • John23
    John23 Member Posts: 2,122 Member
    #3
    Turmeryuck

    "Negative Side Effects
    The use of turmeric may cause side effects in certain people.
    Stomach irritation is the most common side effect and may result
    in nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, bloating or gas. Prolonged
    treatment with turmeric may inflame or damage the lining of your
    stomach, leading to the development of a stomach ulcer. Seek care
    from your physician if you develop chronic diarrhea, persistent
    stomach pain or bloody stools to ensure you receive prompt and
    appropriate care.

    Hazardous Drug Interactions
    Let your doctor know if you are taking any medications before you
    begin treatment with turmeric supplements. Certain drugs should
    not be used in conjunction with turmeric, as hazardous side
    effects may arise. If you are receiving drug treatment for
    diabetes, avoid taking turmeric. Concomitant use of these
    treatments may cause a significant drop in your blood sugar -- a
    side effect called hypoglycemia. Turmeric may also increase
    stomach acid production and should not be used in conjunction
    with medications indicated to reduce stomach acid. Avoid taking
    this supplement if you are receiving treatment with blood
    thinners as this treatment combination may elevate your risk of
    experiencing bleeding complications.

    Contraindications
    Inform your doctor of any health problems you may have before
    taking turmeric supplements. Do not use this supplement if you
    are pregnant or nursing, as turmeric may induce premature labor.
    If you have gallstones, a bile duct obstruction or other types of
    gallbladder problems, avoid taking turmeric as this supplement
    may exacerbate your symptoms. Additionally, MedlinePlus advises
    you to avoid taking turmeric as least two weeks prior to any
    surgical procedure as taking this supplement may increase your
    risk of developing bleeding problems."

    Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/371829-the-health-benefits-hazards-of-turmeric/#ixzz26dXfbyZM

    "Induces premature labor"....... I'd want to keep that in mind...
    I'm too old to give birth...

    The amount needed to see any results are a lot more than one
    would use in a recipe, and the quality of medicinal products are
    not the same as products used for "dietary supplements"

    It's used in TCM, but it's used along with other herbs in a formulas
    to address underlying problems, not as a stand alone to stifle symptoms
    of an underlying problem.

    Better health to you,

    John
  • janderson1964
    janderson1964 Member Posts: 2,215 Member
    #4
    I took it all through chemo
    I took it all through chemo with my doctors blessing. I have evan read about studies by i think MD Anderson indicating Tumeric might enhance the effectiveness of 5FU

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