Fasting with chemo

[Moomin16]

I decided not to fast as hadnt done it before. Ive had loads of side effects nearly everything you can think of. I do wonder how i wouldve been if id fasted. My onc was very against it as said i needed my strength. So it put me off. But i do feel there is something in it, so keep me posted as its very interesting that most ladies report minimal side effects. Im on my final chemo today thankfully. Its all doable but ive noticed everyones journey is very different. Good luck everyone on rest of your treatment. X

[Allight]

I'm on my 4th chemo and have fasted for each one.  Forty eight hours before, and 24 after.  I've allowed myself some veggie broth and celery stalks when I need something crunchy.  My side effects have been limited to a very little nausea following 3rd treatment, my hair has pretty much all fallen out, but that's it so far. No neuropathy, mouth sores, etc. I'll report back periodically.  I found these blogs the MOST helpful.  PS I'm in the US.

[Violet888]

I'm trying all sorts of ways，Thank you for sharing！

[Jill1998]

Hi Flames,most breast changes/lumps are not cancer but if you have concerns it would be best to get a doctor to check you over and hopefully then you can stop worrying .

[FlamesLogInvader]

I feel little strange in my right breast and I'm afraid it is a cancer and it drives me crazy if it is. Emotionally I'm not ready for the treatment and the effect of chemo scsred me a lot. Does anyone tell me the feeling of chemotheraphy?

[leanne]

I fasted throughout chemo too and found I had very few side effects.  Whilst I couldn't say it was definitely due to the fasting, I certainly didn't want to try it without just in case! 

I didn't take anything with the steroids but I think you can eat a little bit of something if you want to.  I didn't completely abstain whilst fasting, just ate a very tiny amount of steamed green vegetables, miso soup and a slice of toast if I felt I really needed something.  I didn't take any supplements during chemo, it's probably best only to if recommended by your doctors.

I ate loads after the fasting period, usually pizza and wine and ice cream!!  (That's probably not recommended!)

[Moomin16]

Did you take anything at the same time with the steroids you were given? - assuming you had steroids. I read that someone had taken avocado fat.
And what did you eat to get your stomach and body moving again after the fasting period?
Did you take any additional supplements during yr chemo treatment? Sorry for all the questions lol x

[Eian01]

Hi Moomin, i also tried the fasting method and foud it helping with the side effects and digestive system. Its goos to know i am not the only one trying it 

[Moomin16]

Charlie thats great! Thanks for getting back to me about it. Im going to give it a go and just see what happens. Thanks again.

[Charlie]

Hi. I did fast when having chemo and am sure I helped with side effects. I had no sickness or upset tummy. I used to have my meal on Thursday evening and fast. Chemo was Saturday morning. Then didn't eat for 24 hours after. If I was hungry, I would have a small portion of mash potatoe or a couple of rice cakes. I don't know if fasting helped but I didn't not want to stop doing it just incase.

[Moomin16]

Thanks Bonita. I will try and repost in a different section. Thank you.

[BonitaE_BCC]

Hi Moomin16,

Sorry to see you haven't received a response yet and I am sure some of our users will be along to share their experiences and show their support soon. 

In the meantime you can always post on our Ask the Nurse board or call our helpline on 0808 800 6000, who will be able to talk you through any questions you have and offer a friendly ear. The opening hours are below:

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Best wishes, 

Bonita 

[Moomin16]

Hi ive seen some older threads on here about fasting during chemo. Has anyone tried this and found it to be of benefit reducing side efeects?