Though no specific diet is indicated in the treatment of CLL, consuming adequate calories, protein and a variety of phytochemical rich foods for their protective components will help support immune function, prevent weight loss, and avoid nutritional deficiencies that can contribute to development of anemia.

Folic acid supplementation (at least 800 mcg/day) is recommended to support red cell production, and a multivitamin/mineral supplement may be indicated if nutritional intake is limited. We can check for vitamin B12 deficiency by performing laboratory tests. This is particularly important for patients who become unable to extract vitamin B12 from their diet or who have diets that have a relatively low amount of vitamin B12, such as a strict vegetarian diet. If B12 deficiency if found then this can be corrected by giving supplemental vitamin B12. Additional calcium and Vitamin D also may be helpful for bone health. If you choose to take herbs or other supplements, always inform your doctor, as many interfere with medications and have unknown risks. Many online sites allow for a check of safety and the most current research.

Two clinical trials on with a phytochemical connection are in progress, one to study the effect of green tea extract on CLL at the Mayo Clinic, and the CLL trial here at UCSD on the effect of gossypol, derived from cottonseeds. For ideas on incorporating more protective, colorful phytochemical-rich foods into your diet, the session this afternoon in the Healing Foods Kitchen will get you started. In addition, as fatigue can be an issue, a cookbook with simple, yet delicious recipes will be available in 2007, by Janet Kipps, RD, to benefit the Blood Cancer Research Fund.

For cooking and nutrition classes, FREE through the Moores Cancer Center, click " Eating Healthy at UCSD" for more information.