Chemotherapy and radiation are the most popular ways of treating cancer, but there are some other options the world isn’t familiar with much. Chemo and radiation have saved a lot of lives, but they also have side effects. Alternatively, there are some natural ways to treat this menace. However, the natural, non-toxic therapies need a long-term commitment and steady approach. Let’s explore six ways to fight cancer without chemo that boost your immune system.
1. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is the common cancer treatment method after chemo and radiation. The method is used to train your immune system to fight cancer and other diseases. The treatment works by stimulating your own immune system to fight cancer cells harder through proteins, according to the American Cancer Society.
There are a few types of immunotherapy, and some are still being researched. They all work in different ways, while some concentrate on boosting the immune system, the rest train our immune system to identify and attack cancer cells.
2. Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the use of fragrant oils to provide a sensational calm. The oils are usually infused with a fragrance such as lavender, and they are applied to your skin during massage. The oils can be added to bath water or released to the air through heating. The therapy helps relieve nausea, pain, stress, and even cancer.
You can use it by yourself, or have a practitioner perform it on you. However, people with breast cancer should apply little amounts of lavender or tea tree oil since their cancer is estrogen sensitive.
3. Oxygen Therapy and Hyperbaric Chambers
Oxygen therapy is alternative to chemo and radiation, and the treatment is also used to treat some conditions including Alzheimer’s disease, HIV/AIDS, Fibromyalgia, and Bell’s palsy but its most impressive ability is facing cancer head-on.
Cancer cells thrive where enough oxygen supply lacks. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy supply cells with oxygen and improves pH. The therapy can help you buffer your body’s pH, the oxygen supply, improve the cellular conditions thus reducing the risk of cancer growth. Even though the therapy is promising, it’s not considered a conventional treatment method. Some hospitals are still studying further on its ability to fight cancer.
4. Ketogenic Diet
Also known as keto diet, it’s a diet that allows the body to convert fat into fuel in a physiological process without burdening the mitochondria. It’s this mitochondria that convert glucose into energy. That glucose is derived from the carbs in our diets. Keto diet is high in good fats and low in carbs. The diet protects your body from breast, lung, and colon cancer by reducing the risk of mutations.
Cancer cells thrive on the anaerobic metabolism due to lack of oxygenation. Keto diet reduces the symptoms in people with metabolic conditions by lowering the energy generated from the breakdown.
Examples of ketogenic approved foods include veggies and fruits low in carbohydrates such as lemon, cabbage, asparagus, and limes. Healthy fats in the diet include coconut oil, avocados, and few nut and seed types.
5. Yoga
Yoga combines deep breathing and stretching exercise. During a session, you position your body by making various poses like stretching, bending and twisting. There are many types of yoga asanas with different variations.
Yoga can help relieve stress for people with cancer. It has also been shown to improve sleep and reduce fatigue.
Before joining a yoga class, ask your doctor whether they can recommend an instructor who works with people with cancer or similar concerns. Avoid any painful yoga pose. An experienced instructor will suggest a better one for you.
Conclusion
Cancer is a world problem, and to date, there hasn’t been a permanent solution. Though, cancer can be controlled in its early stage, and it’s essential to go for regular checkups. Some experts claim that cancer is a lifestyle disease. The food we eat especially and our environment impact our immune system. Always try to find fresh air and eat a balanced diet to reduce the risks.