Protocol · Oncology Support
Bone Cancer Supportive Care Protocol
Vitamin D and Calcium are the core of this stack, with 8 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Bone Cancer Supportive Care.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
10 supplements · 1 graded
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | ||||
| Vitamin D | Amount listed: 2,000–4,000 IU daily (higher if deficient; monitor levels) | Supports bone health and immune function; deficiency common in cancer patients; may influence outcomes | Not graded yet | |
| Calcium | Amount listed: 1,000–1,200 mg daily (from diet + supplements; with vitamin D) | Supports remaining bone health; often needed with bisphosphonate therapy | Not graded yet | |
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | ||||
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 2–4 g EPA+DHA daily | Anti-inflammatory; may help maintain muscle mass; supports quality of life during treatment | Not graded yet | |
| Protein Supplementation | Amount listed: 1.2–1.5 g/kg body weight daily total protein; supplement as needed | Maintains muscle mass; supports healing; prevents cachexia during treatment | Not graded yet | |
| Glutamine | Amount listed: 10–30 g daily in divided doses during chemotherapy | May reduce mucositis from chemotherapy; supports gut integrity and immune function | Not graded yet | |
| Ginger | Amount listed: 1–2 g daily in divided doses starting before chemotherapy | Reduces chemotherapy-induced nausea when combined with antiemetics
| Grade C for Nausea Symptoms9 studies · 60 people | |
| Vitamin C | Amount listed: 500–1,000 mg daily (avoid very high doses during treatment without oncologist approval) | Antioxidant; supports immune function and wound healing; deficiency common in cancer | Not graded yet | |
| Zinc | Amount listed: 15–30 mg daily | Supports immune function and wound healing; may help with taste changes from treatment | Not graded yet | |
| Probiotics | Amount listed: 10–20 billion CFU daily (avoid if severely immunocompromised) | Supports gut health during treatment; may reduce antibiotic-related diarrhea | Not graded yet | |
| Melatonin | Amount listed: 3–20 mg at bedtime (start low) | May improve sleep; some evidence for quality of life during cancer treatment | Not graded yet | |
How this protocol works
In plain language
Bone cancer includes primary bone cancers (osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, chondrosarcoma) that start in bone, and metastatic bone disease where cancer from elsewhere (breast, prostate, lung) spreads to bones. Treatment typically involves surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation depending on the type and stage.
CRITICAL: Cancer treatment must be directed by your oncology team. This protocol is for SUPPORTIVE CARE ONLY and should be discussed with your oncologist before starting any supplements.
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS:
- Some supplements may interfere with chemotherapy or radiation
- Always disclose all supplements to your oncology team
- High-dose antioxidants during treatment are controversial
- Avoid supplements that may affect blood clotting before surgery
Vitamin D and Calcium* support bone health. Bisphosphonates (Zometa, Aredia) are often prescribed to protect bones and typically require vitamin D and calcium supplementation.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Protein* help maintain muscle mass and fight cachexia (cancer-related wasting).
Glutamine* may reduce mouth sores (mucositis) from chemotherapy - a common and painful side effect.
Ginger* can help with chemotherapy-induced nausea when used alongside prescribed antiemetics.
Probiotics* may help with gut health during treatment but should be avoided if your immune system is severely suppressed.
Expected timeline: Supportive supplements help manage treatment side effects and maintain quality of life. Cancer treatment timelines vary by type and stage. Work closely with your oncology team throughout.