TABLE I.

Advice offered by CAREpath nurses regarding diet, exercise, and supplements

CAREpath nurses provide detailed ongoing advice about aerobic and resistance exercise during and after treatment to reduce fatigue, improve mood, and reduce the risk of lymphedema and cancer recurrence.

Comprehensive “tip sheets” addressing weight reduction and a lowered intake of refined carbohydrates to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and metabolic syndrome are provided, as is a detailed syllabus addressing exercise.

Personal counselling by a dietician is provided to selected clients with severe dietary problems. Clients are also educated about and advised against use of naturopathic treatments and unproven nutrition supplements to avoid potential interference with conventional treatment.

Throughout, clients are encouraged to have in-depth discussions with treating physicians and family physicians about diet and exercise, and are made aware of wellness and recovery programs available in their centre or locally.