This article explores natural and dietary methods to support lung cancer symptom management. Emphasizing nutritional choices such as cruciferous vegetables, fruits, herbs, and spices, it highlights the role of herbal remedies and key medications like Atezolizumab and ZEPZELCA®. Combining lifestyle adjustments with medical treatment can improve quality of life for lung cancer patients, offering a holistic approach to managing symptoms and supporting overall health.
Lung cancer, mainly classified into small cell (SCLC) and non-small cell (NSCLC), may also encompass rare types like lung carcinoids caused by abnormal cell growth. While a complete cure remains challenging, symptom management can be improved through dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and appropriate medical therapy.
Dietary Recommendations
Cruciferous vegetables
Vegetables such as broccoli, bok choy, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and kale are beneficial, as they contain glucosinolates, folate, flavonoids, vitamin C, fiber, beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which support cancer-fighting processes.
Eating fresh fruits like pears and apples provides phloretin, which may reduce the risk of lung fibrosis during treatment. Berries including blueberries, blackberries, and cranberries contain anthocyanidins that can slow tumor growth and lower blood clot risks linked to lung cancer.
Spices and herbs contribute additional support: ginger’s 6-shogaol can prevent rapid cancer cell spread. Capers are rich in quercetin, an antioxidant that limits tumor progression. Curcumin from turmeric acts to block cancer cell invasion into healthy tissues.
Herbal remedies may help alleviate symptoms: astragalus boosts immunity; nan sha shen helps reduce inflammation; licorice root and Poria mushroom can soothe coughs, infections, and fluid retention.
Combining dietary enhancements with prescribed treatments ensures more effective symptom control.
Atezolizumab
Marketed as TECENTRIQ®, this FDA-approved medication enhances immune activity to target cancer cells.
ZEPZELCA®
Used in advanced small cell lung cancer cases, especially when chemotherapy fails or the disease progresses.