Update 2013 on complementary oncology

In 2012 several studies and reviews on the question of prevention of tumerous diseases with nutritional supplements were published. There are still no indications for the use of antioxidants in healthy people. Folic acid and Vitamin B12 even may induce tumor growth. The data underline the significance of Vitamin D in primary and secondary prevention. Selenium levels below as well as above normal are associated with a higher risk of cancer. Omega-3 fatty acids have a potential as anti-inflammatory agents. The results of two studies are indicative for pomegranate extract reducing growth in prostate cancer but in both studies a control group without extract was lacking. So far no study on mistletoe has been published which proves positive effects on survival or side effects of cancer therapy. Chinese medical herbs may contain interesting substances. As knowledge on the side effects and interactions is missing they should not be used outside studies. For acupuncture many studies have been published but the quality in general is low so that no conclusions can be drawn concerning pain, fatigue and xerostomia. Systematic reviews have cited positive results for nausea and emesis. No studies are available which show results demonstrating the efficacy of homeopathy in cancer patients.