: Strengthening the "natural killer" (NK) cells' ability to identify and target abnormal cells.
: Supporting the liver and gut microbiome to better process chemotherapy and radiation. Oncological Functional Nutrition: Phytochemical...
Phytochemicals are bioactive nutrient compounds found in plants that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition. In the context of oncology, they act as "biological response modifiers" that can influence the various stages of carcinogenesis. : Strengthening the "natural killer" (NK) cells' ability
: Some phytochemicals, such as sulforaphane (found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli), help "re-program" cancer cells to undergo apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which is often bypassed by malignant cells. In the context of oncology, they act as
: Compounds like lycopene (found in tomatoes) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) (found in green tea) neutralize free radicals, preventing the DNA damage that can lead to mutations.
: Chronic inflammation is a known driver of cancer progression. Curcumin (from turmeric) and quercetin (found in onions and apples) inhibit pro-inflammatory pathways, such as NF-κB, creating an environment less conducive to tumor growth.