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Cancer can be devastating. Even more devastating, though, can be cancer treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy, which are often more distressing than the cancer itself. Many are now turning to alternative cancer therapies, sometimes to supplement and sometimes to replace established forms of cancer treatment.

Be careful. The world of alternative cancer treatment is full of all types of quackery. In particular, care must be taken when alternative cancer treatment is to be used to replace established cancer treatment. Most experts, even those who favor some forms of alternative cancer treatment, recommend it as a supplement to, rather than as a replacement for, established forms of cancer treatment.

Following is a list of some of the more prevalent alternative treatments:

A Balanced Diet: A diet of fruits, vegetables and whole wheat can serve as an effective hedge against cancer because it increases both fiber and anti-oxidants, which are thought to be useful in slowing cancer's progress.

Green Tea: A Chinese favorite for on-medical reasons, and a popular alternative cancer treatment. Green tea is rich in flavinoids, which are anti-oxidents. Studies have indicated that anti-oxidants used in conjunction with chemotherapy may increases latter's effectiveness. In addition to this, green tea may slow the progress of cancer even without the use of chemotherapy.

Nitrilosides * Nitirilosides are group of natural substances found in many fruits such as tart black cherries, cranberries, and papayas, among others.

Herbs: Melatonin and St. John;s Wort are thought to be useful as a supplement to established cancer treatment (beware, though: St. John's Wort should not to be taken in conjunction with chemotherapy because it may interact with chemotherapy drugs).

Holistic Medicine: Hypnosis, yoga, acupuncture, hypnosis, and similar mind/body exercises are commonly used to fight cancer.

Be sure to keep your physician informed of the details of any alternative treatments that you plan to pursue. And keep away from any *alternative* treatment that promises a miracle cure or sudden, dramatic results.