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After three week weeks of Taxol, I found myself dropping things like earrings and lip balm caps more frequently. I brought this up to my medical oncologist, who said that I must be particularly sensitive to Taxol since neuropathy doesn’t usually appear so quickly. Adjustments were made to my chemotherapy dosing, and it was recommended that I start taking 30 mg of L-Glutamine powder, which is an amino acid. (Consult with your physician before starting any supplement to see if this makes sense for you.)
I visited my local GNC and asked the clerks for their help. They showed me a small container of L-Glutamine right next to the cash register. When I did the math, I figured this container would only last me 5 days, so I asked if they sold a larger container. They took me to a shelf and we found a much larger container L-Glutamine powder. We chatted about why people take it and how they suggested taking it (mix it in a water bottle with water, powdered drink mix, or sports drink).
The clerks showed me L-Glutamine chews, which are chewable and portable. I figured I’d wait to see if the powder works and come back for the chews later.
The two muscular clerks asked me if I was doing Cross Fit or triathlon training. I told them neither, I was getting chemotherapy and was going to be the buffest person in the chemo chairs. They both looked at me not sure whether they should laugh or if I was serious. I explained that I was getting this at the suggestion of my physician to help preserve my nerves due to the effects of chemo.
The powder is a bit gritty and doesn’t really dissolve. I find myself having to shake the water bottle before drinking the cloudy liquid. To make sure I get in the suggested amount each day, I add the powder to my oatmeal, smoothies, and hot chocolate.
In addition to the powder, the doctor wants me to wear socks around the house to protect my feet. Do you know that feeling where you foot has fallen asleep but then it is slowly waking up? That’s what my feet feel like, except they aren’t asleep and they aren’t waking up. They’re in this strange in between limbo. Since I don’t have full sensation of my toes, I’ve been wearing fuzzy socks with grips to keep my feet warm and safe around the house.
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