First chemotherapy session went well, I was drowsy through most of it, worst is I have some tingling and aches in my limbs. Feels like a success. I have to admit I feared the worst. Wednesday morning I felt lousy and we requested change to the chemo protocol (no glucose, no steroids), so from a "standard of care" perspective I was less protected from side effects. We pulled the steroids because they produce a high level of sugar, which feeds the cancer. Our hope was that fasting (chemo was on day 3 of my water only fast) would provide the same reduction in nausea and inflammation. Fasting is an interesting experience, it is like an addicts withdrawal. Craig was a hero, before chemo I wanted "just an avocado" and he kept me honest. My blood ketones were 2.9 yesterday (hunger) today they are 5.8 (no hunger). My plan is to continue to burn ketones instead of sugar (starving the cancer) by using a ketogenic diet, my goal is to maintain a blood ketone level around 4.
But fasting is only during chemo sessions...Today I eat!
FUN FACT: Did you know that intermittent water-only fasts are good for your health? We can fast for 40 days without starvation. Calorie restriction is also very good for health. Eating within a 6 hour window is another way to fast. Many religions have encouraged fasting...maybe they knew.