Chapter 8: Nutraceuticals in Hematological Malignancies

Nutraceuticals are consumed by a growing number of cancer patients including those with a hematological malignancy. Despite this, their use remains controversial due to the lack of robust evidence on their safety, efficacy and interactions with conventional chemotherapeutics. Biochemical mechanisms governing nutraceutical use for the treatment of hematological malignancies are largely based on in vitro studies and experimental animal models. Although few in number, clinical studies have demonstrated their potential therapeutic utility as single-agents or in combination with conventional chemotherapies. In this review, we summarize the evidence for nutraceutical use in patients with a hematological malignancy, highlight certain nutraceuticals that have therapeutic potential and provide merit for their continued clinical investigation.