Integrative & Metabolic Cancer Care

Integrative cancer treatment combines the best of conventional medicine—such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy—with evidence‑based complementary approaches like nutrition therapy, metabolic interventions, mind‑body practices, and supportive care. The goal is to treat the whole person, not just the disease, and to improve quality of life during and after treatment.

What Is Integrative Oncology?

Integrative oncology is a patient‑centered, evidence‑informed field of cancer care that uses mind and body practices, natural products, and lifestyle modifications alongside conventional cancer treatments. This approach is coordinated with your oncology team to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Benefits of Integrative Care

Relief from symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, pain, and anxiety.
Improved tolerance to conventional treatments.
Enhanced quality of life and emotional well‑being.
Potential metabolic benefits for certain cancers (under medical supervision).

Core Components

Conventional Medicine: Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, immunotherapy.
Metabolic Approaches: Medically supervised ketogenic diet, intermittent fasting, glucose/ketone monitoring.
Lifestyle Medicine: Exercise, sleep optimization, stress management.
Mind‑Body Therapies: Meditation, yoga, tai chi, guided imagery.
Supportive Therapies: Acupuncture, massage, music/art therapy, counseling.
Nutrition & Supplement Guidance: Evidence‑based recommendations, avoiding harmful interactions.

Safety & Evidence

All complementary therapies should be evidence‑based and coordinated with your oncology team. Avoid unproven treatments that could interfere with conventional care. Use reputable sources to evaluate claims.

Your Care Team

An integrative care team may include oncologists, integrative medicine physicians, dietitians, physical therapists, psychologists, social workers, and patient navigators. Many cancer centers now offer integrative oncology programs.