Gerson Cancer Diet

The Gerson cancer regime is an alternative diet to cure cancer and other serious ailments. It is one of the oldest nutritional approaches in the treatment of all cancers. Dr. Max Gerson, a German Physician first devised the diet to treat migraine headaches that he had. The diet is primarily made of up of three components--diet, supplements and detoxing coffee enemas.

Theory

Practitioners who follow the Gerson protocol believe that people who are afflicted with cancer have too much sodium in their bodies, and a serious lack of potassium. Eating fresh and uncooked, organically grown vegetables are believed to cure this imbalance, which in turn creates a healthy disease free body. The coffee enemas are claimed to alleviate pain and create detoxification of the liver as found on the American Cancer Society website.

Diet

Dr. Gerson's diet includes organic fresh fruits and vegetables juices, squeezed daily. The diet requires 13 glasses of this juice to be consumed throughout the day. The diet is strictly vegetarian and includes the addition of whole grains. Seasonings and salts are not permitted. Small amounts of protein can be added after six to twelve weeks.

Supplements

There are a number of supplements included in this diet. Supplements include Coenzyme Q10 injections with added vitamin B12. Potassium iodide, iodine and water referred to as Lugoi's solution is taken daily. Doses of vitamins A, C and B3 are required. Flaxseed oil and linseed oil for omega 3 fatty acids are part of the daily program. Other supplements required are pepsin and pancreatic enzymes according to the website cancer.gov.

Risks and Complications

According to the American Cancer Society there have been several deaths and serious illnesses reported. The coffee enemas that are part of the diet protocol caused some serious infections. and also removed potassium from the body causing dehydration. The diet does not have FDA approval for Cancer or other illnesses. There have been no large documented studies compiled on this diet.