How Nutrition, Movement, and Stress Management Can Support Your Myeloma Treatment

Discover what you can do beyond treatment to support your myeloma care.

This article shares key takeaways from a HealthTree webinar about integrative oncology with Dr. Krisstina Gowin. You will learn how daily habits such as nutrition, movement, and stress management can help your health.  

What is integrative oncology, and why does it matter?

Dr. Gowin explained that integrative oncology combines standard cancer care with supportive habits. These include nutrition, exercise, and mind-body practices.  

Integrative oncology does not replace treatment. It works alongside it. This approach focuses on the whole person. It supports quality of life and overall health during care.

For people with myeloma, this matters because care can last many years. Small daily habits can shape how you feel over time.

Nutrition choices may support outcomes

Research has shown that diet may affect myeloma risk and progression. Key findings include:

• Eating fruits several times per week was linked to lower risk
• Healthy diets were linked to 15–24% lower myeloma-related deaths
• Plant-based, high-fiber diets improved patients’ quality of life 

A high-fiber diet includes foods like beans, vegetables, and whole grains. Fiber helps digestion and supports gut health.

These findings show that food choices can affect your body’s environment. A plant-based diet may support immune health and lower inflammation. 

“Food is powerful. What you eat can change how you feel.” -Dr. Gowin 

Movement can help with fatigue and recovery

Exercise is safe for many people with myeloma when done carefully. Studies found:

• Exercise reduced fatigue
• Patients handled treatment better
• Patients had fewer hospital stays
• Some studies showed that patients experienced longer remission 

You do not need intense workouts. Simple, steady movement can support your energy and recovery. Some examples include short walks or light activity during the day to make a difference. 

“Exercise is one of the most effective ways to reduce fatigue.” -Dr. Gowin 

Mind-body practices can ease symptoms

Integrative care includes tools to manage symptoms like stress and pain. These include:

• Yoga and meditation
• Tai chi, a slow movement practice
• Acupuncture for nerve sensitivity or pain
• Music and relaxation therapies 

These options give you more ways to manage symptoms. You can try many of these at home or with professional help. 

Supplements require caution and guidance

Many people with myeloma ask about vitamins and supplements. Some may help, but others can interfere with treatment.

Examples from research include:

• Low vitamin D levels were linked to worse outcomes
• Curcumin showed early promise but has safety concerns
• Green tea extracts may interact with some myeloma therapies 

Vitamin D supports bone and immune health. Doctors can test levels and guide safe use.

Talk with your care team before starting any supplement. Your treatment plan can affect what is safe.

Managing stress is part of care

Chronic stress affects the body. It can increase inflammation and impact the immune system.

Helpful ways to manage stress include: 

• Daily mindfulness or breathing exercises
• Gratitude practices
• Finding purpose or meaning in daily life

These practices can improve mood and well-being. Emotional health affects physical health. Small daily habits can support both. 

If you are experiencing more than occasional feelings of sadness or anxiety, it is recommended to see a licensed mental health provider. They can give you more effective tools to support your emotional well-being.  

Building a simple plan for daily care

Dr. Gowin shared simple ways to support your health:

• Eat more plant-based, colorful foods
• Stay active in ways that feel safe
• Practice stress management each day
• Explore supportive therapies like acupuncture

These steps do not replace myeloma treatment. Then can, however, support your care plan. 

Learn more about integrative oncology for myeloma

Summary

Integrative oncology can support your health during myeloma care. Nutrition, movement, and stress care all matter. Small daily choices can improve how you feel and function over time. 

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