Multiple myeloma (MM) has seen significant treatment advancements, including immune modulators, proteasome inhibitors, and chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapies, resulting in a tripling of median overall survival. However, MM remains incurable, with patients experiencing symptoms like pain, fatigue, and anxiety, which severely impact their quality of life (QoL). Integrative oncology and integrative hematology have emerged to complement traditional treatments, focusing on mind-body practices, natural products, and lifestyle modifications. These approaches aim to alleviate disease symptoms, reduce treatment side effects, and enhance immune function, addressing many unmet needs of patients with MM.

This review explores the role of nutrition, lifestyle changes, and natural supplements in MM management. Certain foods, such as fish, fruits, and vegetables, have been linked to reduced disease progression, while obesity and sarcopenia highlight the importance of dietary interventions. The microbiota also plays a role in disease pathogenesis and treatment outcomes, influenced by diet. Natural compounds like curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate, and vitamin D have shown potential in improving outcomes, though more clinical trials are needed. The authors also emphasize the value of acupuncture and mind-body techniques in improving QoL and call for further studies to establish evidence-based guidelines for their safe and effective use.

Reference: Andreazzoli F, Levy Yurkovski I, Ben-Arye E, Bonucci M. Conceptualizing an Integrative Multiple Myeloma Care: The Role of Nutrition, Supplements, and Complementary Modalities. Nutrients. 2024;16(2):237. doi: 10.3390/nu16020237.