After my diagnosis of lung cancer I consulted a "nutritionist" in the community to learn which foods would fight cancer and also help me through chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The nutritionist prescribed and sold me a dozen different vitamins/herbal supplements which he recommended for cancer. Should I tell my oncologist about the supplements that I'm taking?

First, make sure that your "nutritionist" is a registered dietitian (R.D.) An R.D. is a professional who has earned a bachelor's degree in nutrition from an accredited college, completed an internship approved by the ADA (American Dietetic Association), and passed a registration exam. Use caution when a nutritionist tries to sell you vitamin/herbal supplements.
The Comprehensive Cancer Centers, Inc. (Salick Health Care) provide nutritional counseling by registered dietitians for their patients. You might find it helpful to make an appointment to see her/him.
And yes, always inform your oncologist about any vitamin or herbal supplement you are taking during your treatment.

I've just completed my third week of radiation therapy for tonsil cancer and my mouth is really dry. Is there any recommendations to alleviate dry mouth?

1). Drink plenty of fluids (water is O.K., but if you're losing weight be sure to drink fluids that have calories). 2). Try sugar-free sourballs or lemon drops to stimulate saliva production. 3). Use artificial salvia available at most drugstores (Salivart Synthetic Saliva or Optimoist). Use especially before meals to help you eat. 4). Chew sugar-free gum every few hours. Chewing helps stimulate salivary glands. 5). Ask your radiation oncologist about Salagen, a prescription medication for dry mouth.

My mother has just been diagnosed with breast cancer. I recently read that omega-3 fatty acids may slow down tumor growth. Which food sources are high in omega-3's?

One of the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids are fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, herring, and sable. To get a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids, eat fish two to three times a week. If you don't like fish, plant sources include flaxseed* and walnuts. Although fish oil supplements are heavily marketed, they are not recommended. So eat more fish !!!! Fish is also low in saturated fat which is heart healthy.
*Flax Hotline 1-800-817-9894       Web Site: http://www.flaxcouncil.ca

I've been hearing about the health benefits of drinking green tea. I currently drink a lot of cola and coffee. Should I substitute green tea instead to reduce my risk of cancer?

Numerous studies are showing that green tea offers powerful protection against cancers of the colon, pancreas, esophagus, stomach, lung, and bladder. Experts believe that green tea's health benefits come from it's polyphenols, which act as powerful antioxidants. Black tea contains lower levels of polyphenols, whereas herbal teas contains none.
So yes, you should substitute green tea for cola and coffee, making it a regular part of your diet.