How to Beat Pancreatic Cancer Naturally?

When discussing natural approaches to combat pancreatic cancer, it's important to clarify that while some natural products are herbal medicines show promise as complementary therapies, they should not be considered standalone treatments. Conventional treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation remain the primary strategies for tackling pancreatic cancer.

Here are some insights based on recent research:

Promising Natural Products:

• Curcumin (from turmeric) has demonstrated anti-cancer properties by including apoptosis (programmed cell death) and inhibiting cancer cell growth.
• Mistletoe Extracts have been explored for their potential to boost the immune system and improve the efficacy of conventional chemotherapy.
• Thymoquinone (from Nigella sativa) has shown anti-cancer effects in preclinical studies.
• Certain Chinese Herbal Medicines have also exhibited potential anti-cancer properties.

Mechanisms of Action:

• Antioxidant Effects: These compounds often possess strong antioxidant properties, helping to reduce oxidative stress in cancer cells.
• Epigenetic Modifications: Some natural products can alter gene expression through mechanisms like histone acetylation, impacting key genes involved in cancer progression (e.g., p53, Bax, Bcl-2).
• Enhanced Chemotherapy: There is evidence from early-phase clinical trials, that natural compounds like curcumin can enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs such as gemcitabine.

What Foods Are Good For Patients With Pancreatic Cancer?

High-Protein Foods

• Lean proteins: Chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, nut butters, low-fat dairy, beans, soy products, tofu
• Include protein with every meal and snack to help repair cells and boost the immune system

Fruits and Vegetables

• Eat at least 5 servings per day of colorful fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants
• Good options: smoothies, applesauce, bananas, (sources of soluble fiber)

Whole Grains

• Oatmeal, whole grain bread, brown rice, quinoa, farro provide complex carbs and fiber

Healthy Fats

• Olive oil, avocado, seeds, nuts, fatty fish provide energy and protect organs

Easy to Digest Foods

• Soft, chopped, boiled foods like soups and smoothies when digestion is difficult
• Avoid raw vegetables, red meat, and pork, which can be harder to digest

Liquid Supplements

• Protein drinks and shakes made with Greek yogurt or milk, and bone broths when solid food is difficult to consume

Foods to Limit

• Sugary foods, desserts, and high fructose corn syrup which can spike blood sugar
• High fat meats and fried or greasy foods which can worsen symptoms
• Insoluble fiber from whole grains, nuts, and raw fruits/vegetables which can worsen diarrhea
• Caffeine and alcohol which can dehydrate
• Spicy foods with onions and peppers which may cause digestive issues

The overall recommendations emphasize small, frequent meals focused on lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grain, and healthy fats. It's important to limit sugars, unhealthy fats, and insoluble fiber to manage symptoms and meet nutritional needs.

While natural products show promise, they are not yet proven as standalone cures for pancreatic cancer. The evidence supports their use as adjuncts to conventional treatments rather than replacements.

Sources:

UCLA Health.

John Hopkins Medicine

PanCan

Moffitt Cancer Center