I'm just wondering how many people were told to detox through/after chemo? Including organic foods, organic cosmetics, increased water intake (filtered) and even saunas?
There is no evidence to suggest that detoxing after and during chemotherapy is necessary and it would not be a safe thing to do during chemotherapy. Chemotherapy will naturally leave the body and there is no evidence that following a specific diet will help this along. However it is a good advice to eat a good healthy diet. Having a good fluid intake is also vital for good heath but there is no need to take a large amounts of it. Filtering water is a preference that many people take but again it is not necessary. The NHS has some very good information about healthy eating and drinking and you can find it here
Some studies have suggested that exercise may be of some benefit but I would not recommend a full work out in the gym during and directly post chemotherapy. Walking is an excellent form of exercise and may be the best way to get back into physical activity. We have information about this on our website and you can see it here
There would be no harm in eating an organic diet and using organic cosmetics but there is no evidence that this will be more benefical to you compared to having a ’normal’ diet and using non organic cosmetics. I am afraid that I cannot see any evidence that using saunas would be of any benefit but they are a wonderful way to relax. I would also advise you to check with your specialist team if it would be okay to have one if you are still receiving chemotherapy.
If you are receiving chemotherapy your specialist doctors and nurses may have information about what you should eat although there is not usually any specific diets to follow.
I hope that this reply is of some use. If you have any other questions do contact us again. If you would like to telephone our Freephone number is 0808 800 4040. We are here from Monday to Friday between the hours of 9am to 5pm.
