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Can I Drink Energy Drinks to Fight Cancer Fatigue?

By Lisa Fayed, About.com

Created: February 04, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Question: Can I Drink Energy Drinks to Fight Cancer Fatigue?

I started treatment a few weeks ago, and now I am so tired all the time! Can I drink energy drinks to keep my energy level up?

Answer: It may be tempting to reach for that can of Red Bull, but it is probably not the best solution to help you fight cancer fatigue. Energy drinks are loaded with sugar and caffeine -- you may get a small burst of energy from these ingredients, but it will not sustain you through the day.

First, make sure your doctor is aware of your fatigue. Yes, cancer fatigue is a common side effect of treatment, but not everyone experiences it for the same reason. There are several causes of cancer fatigue and it could be due to an underlying medical condition like anemia.

There are several things you can do to help fight fatigue, such as exercising, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and taking short naps throughout the day. Nutrition plays a big role in energy levels, so be sure you are eating a well-balanced diet.

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