There are some common side effects to chemo and radiation that can be treated naturally, generally without interfering with your conventional protocol. Our doctors hope that the following information will be useful to you. Please keep in mind that it is for informational purposes and is no substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professional. You should never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking medical treatment due to information obtained on cLarajean.org.

Mouth sores: Bleeding gums and sores in the mouth (inflamed mucosa or mucositis) hurt and can greatly impact the level of nutrients on can consume during treatment. Because chemo drugs target rapidly growing cells, and the cells of the GI tract (both in the mouth and throughout the stomach and intestines) turnover quickly even under healthy circumstances, it’s not uncommon to experience this kind of side effect. It’s important to reduce inflammation both for your comfort and for your ability to absorb nutrients. Try any of the following:

• Swish and swallow a dose of probiotics, a drop of liquid folic acid, and a teaspoon of L-glutamine.
• Take 2-3 grams of L-glutamine three times a day to help feed and repair GI tract cells.
• Chewable DGL Glycyrrhiza (DGL licorice) tablets will help cells secrete mucosal factors that can help repair damage.
• Manuka honey topically to the tissues can be very healing. Take a tsp several times a day. It’s best to balance the sugar with protein and fat of a meal and not take it straight.
• Avoid over the counter mouthwashes like Listerine and Scope.
• Consider brushing your teeth with baking soda rather than toothpaste. Brush with a very soft toothbrush (Preserve makes an ultrasoft brush, preserveproducts.com) and avoid brushing the gums.

*If your mouth sores don't improve or if you notice white patches in your mouth, be sure to see your physician.