Protocol · Oncology
Head and Neck Cancer Supportive Care Protocol
Glutamine and Omega-3 Fatty Acids are the core of this stack, with 3 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Head and Neck Cancer Supportive Care.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
5 supplements · none graded yet
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | ||||
| Glutamine | Amount listed: 10–30 g daily during radiation treatment | May help reduce mucositis severity from radiation | Not graded yet | |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 2–3 g EPA+DHA daily | Anti-inflammatory; supports weight maintenance during treatment | Not graded yet | |
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | ||||
| Protein Supplementation | Amount listed: 1.2–1.5 g/kg/day total protein | Critical for maintaining muscle mass; swallowing difficulties limit intake | Not graded yet | |
| Vitamin D | Amount listed: 2,000–4,000 IU daily | Supports immune function; often deficient | Not graded yet | |
| Zinc | Amount listed: 15–30 mg daily | Supports wound healing; taste changes common
| Not graded yet | |
How this protocol works
In plain language
Head and neck cancers include cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box, sinuses, and salivary glands. Treatment often significantly impacts eating, swallowing, and speaking.
TYPES:
- Oral cavity cancer (mouth, tongue, gums)
- Oropharyngeal cancer (tonsils, base of tongue) - often HPV-related
- Laryngeal cancer (voice box)
- Hypopharyngeal cancer (lower throat)
- Nasopharyngeal cancer
- Salivary gland cancer
CRITICAL: Head and neck cancer requires comprehensive oncological care. This protocol is SUPPORTIVE ONLY.
TREATMENT CHALLENGES:
- Mucositis: Painful mouth/throat sores from radiation
- Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing
- Xerostomia: Dry mouth (can be permanent)
- Taste changes: Often severe
- Weight loss: Very common
- Feeding tube: Often needed during treatment
NUTRITIONAL PRIORITIES:
- Maintain weight and muscle mass
- Adequate protein intake
- Manage swallowing difficulties
- Address taste changes
Glutamine* may help reduce mucositis severity.
Protein intake* is critical but challenging.
Discuss all supplements with oncology team.*
Expected timeline: Treatment effects (mucositis, dysphagia) typically peak mid-treatment and improve weeks to months after.