What is Gerson therapy?

Cancers treated: All

Why performed: The theory behind Gerson therapy is that the body needs to be detoxified frequently in order to treat a disease’s underlying cause. It is theorized that people with cancer may contain levels of sodium in their bodies that are too high relative to the levels of potassium. Eating organic fruits and vegetables and taking supplements are believed to help restore a balance in the body.

Patient preparation: Patients with diabetes, brain metastases, kidney damage, and foreign bodies such as pacemakers and implants and those undergoing chemotherapy should consult a certified Gerson practitioner before beginning treatment.

Steps of the procedure: The therapy is based on maintaining a diet high in vitamins and minerals, which is achieved by consuming juices made from fresh, organic fruits and vegetables, as well as vegetarian meals. Medications are taken orally or injected.

In addition, in order to rid the body of toxins, enemas are administered. They are thought to increase bile flow, which facilitates the removal of toxins as well as the elimination of tumor and diseased tissue that is being broken down. Some items prohibited by the therapy include salt, oil, berries or nuts, coffee, drinking water, animal protein, and bottled, canned, preserved, or frozen food, as well as the use of aluminum utensils.

After the procedure: No special steps are taken following Gerson therapy.

Risks: The solutions used for enemas in Gerson therapy (such as coffee) can cause infections, dehydration, constipation, colitis, electrolyte imbalance, heart and lung problems, and even death. Some additional side effects that have been reported by those using Gerson therapy include dizziness or weakness, abdominal cramps, loss of appetite, diarrhea, aching, fever and sweating, and cold sores. The therapy can be especially problematic in women who are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Results: No conclusive scientific evidence has shown that this therapy is effective in preventing or treating cancer.

"Gerson Regimen." Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 5 Oct. 2012. Web. 6 Oct. 2014.

"Gerson Therapy." American Cancer Society. American Cancer Society, 11 Dec. 2012. Web. 6 Oct. 2014.

"The Gerson Therapy." Gerson Institute. Gerson Institute, 16 Sept. 2011. Web. 6 Oct. 2014.

"Gerson Therapy." National Cancer Institute. Natl. Institutes of Health, 10 Aug. 2012. Web. 6 Oct. 2014.