Integrative Oncology Approaches for Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Risk Reduction in Patients With Digestive Tract Cancers

The purpose of this review is to examine lifestyle-related risk factors for digestive tract cancers, outline integrative oncology strategies for managing nutrition and gastrointestinal symptoms during treatment, and summarize post-treatment recommendations for reducing cancer risk. Key modifiable lifestyle factors in both the prevention and survivorship setting include engaging in regular physical activity and consuming a diet rich in plant-based foods with limited red meat and processed foods. The review also centers integrative approaches to manage gastrointestinal toxicities due to radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy, including practical nutrition tips, mindfulness-based interventions, tai chi/qigong, yoga, acupuncture/acupressure, and selected natural products and herbal supplements. We aim to offer clinicians a holistic framework for caring for patients with digestive tract cancers and to provide both clinicians and patients alike with pragmatic, evidence-based integrative strategies that can reduce risk of cancer, complement pharmacologic treatment, and improve survival.