17Jun/11Off
Why avoid Vitamins C and E when on radiation treatment?
My grandmother is having radiation treatment on her spine and sternum. The doctor told her to avoid Vitamins C and E. We're trying to understand and figure out why. Thanks!
My grandmother is having radiation treatment on her spine and sternum. The doctor told her to avoid Vitamins C and E. We're trying to understand and figure out why. Thanks!
June 17th, 2011 - 10:19
Radiation works on the principle of *creating* free radicals to destroy cells. Vit. C + E (also D) are strong anti-oxidants that work to scrub the body of free radicals. So it is believed that these vitamins can actually work AGAINST the radiation treatment.
I believe you are only advised to avoid supplements of these vitamins. It is fine to eat foods that contain normal amounts of any vitamins.
June 17th, 2011 - 10:19
Gee, I wasn’t told that and I took, E, C, Omegas, etc..I had radiation to my brain and told my dr everything I was taking and he was fine with it…Really can’t understand why her dr said that, unless he’s a quack..
Apparently he really doesn’t know what he’s talking about:
With regard to mixing antioxidants and radiation therapy, there is very little research in humans, and the recommendation made in the article was based primarily on theory and test tube studies. However, one preliminary study in women with cancer of the cervix suggested that antioxidants (vitamin C plus bioflavonoids) might enhance the effects of radiation therapy. Of the women who received antioxidants along with radiation therapy, 100% had a favorable response to the treatment, whereas only 59% of women receiving radiation therapy by itself had a positive response.
http://bastyrcenter.org/content/view/902/