Antioxidants

Do the antioxidants found naturally in fruits and vegetables (Whole food) have any effect on the radiation treatment for Breast Cancer?

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Caryl Jean, The American Cancer Society Workgroup on Nutrition and Physical Activity for Cancer Survivors May 2001, published guidelines for nutrition during and after cancer treatment in "CA - A Cancer Journal for Clinicians". The following information is adapted from these guidelines.

During radiation therapy part of the effect is due to the oxidative damage produced by the radiation. Taking antioxidant vitamins and supplements during radiation therapy might reduce the effectiveness of the therapy according to some experts. Others have pointed out that the possible harm of supplements is only a theory, and that there might be a benefit from supplements that could help protect normal cells from the collateral damage associated with such therapies. Unfortunately, this is one of the critical questions without a good answer at this time. The current recommendation, based on available data to date, is to avoid nutritional supplements that contain antioxidant compounds during radiation therapy.

This recommendation would not be referring to antioxidants found naturally in whole food.

[Caryl Jean]

My question was not answered.  I need to know if the diet of a person taking radiation needs to be altered.  Antioxidants are found in fruits and vegetables.  Does this form of antioxidants have any adverse effect on the radiation treatment.  I understand that supplements may have an effect.

[joanbk]

Your question WAS answered.  Antioxidants in whole foods does not create a problem.  Read answer again.