New directions in the nutritional management of the cancer patient

The following is a brief review exploring the role of certain nutrients and metabolic processes in the treatment of cancer. This review specifically examines the role of various nutrients in cancer growth and in the control of side effects and complications of cancer and its treatment. Areas of interest include the beneficial metabolic effects and anti-cachexia properties of hydrazine sulfate in the cancer patient, the use of elemental diet feeding as prophylaxis against radiation injury to the intestine, and the application of the field of chronobiology which suggests that the timing of cancer treatment and nutrition in relation to the body's rhythms may offer therapeutic advantages. The clinical application of these theories to enhance cancer treatment and manage treatment side effects are discussed.