Each year, approximately 2 million PET scans are performed in the U.S., many for cancer detection and monitoring. However, not all cancer patients require a PET scan, and overuse can lead to unnecessary radiation exposure, false positives, and unneeded biopsies (Cancer Today: PET Scan Overuse).

The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) advises against routine PET scans, especially for low-risk cancers or asymptomatic patients, unless strong evidence suggests the results will impact treatment decisions.

But before we get into the ramifications of this common procedure, let’s talks about what a PET Scan actually is.

What is a PET Scan?

Positron Emission Tomography (PET scan) is a specialized imaging test that utilizes a radioactive substance called a tracer to measure measures oxygen use, blood flow, and glucose metabolism in the body. Since cancer cells tend to consume glucose at an accelerated rate, PET scans help detect areas of abnormal metabolic activity, making them useful for:

• Determining cancer stage (how advanced the disease is)
• Monitoring treatment response (seeing if chemotherapy or radiation is working)
• Detecting recurrence (checking if cancer has returned)

The most common tracer, fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), is a radioactive glucose-based compound that cancer cells absorb at a higher rate than normal cells, making tumors more visible.

Detoxing After a PET Scan

If you’ve undergone a PET scan (or any imaging involving ionizing radiation), you may want to take steps to help your body detox and recover from the exposure. While the amount of radiation from a single scan is considered relatively low, repeated exposure can accumulate over time. Here are some natural strategies to support detoxification and cellular repair:

1. Hydrate & Flush Out Radiation. Drink plenty of purified water – Staying hydrated helps flush out radioactive tracers more quickly. Add lemon or chlorophyll – Lemon water alkalizes the body and supports liver detox, while chlorophyll (found in greens like spirulina and chlorella) binds to heavy metals and radiation.

2. Take Binding Agents to Absorb & Remove Toxins. Certain natural compounds can bind to radioactive particles and heavy metals, helping your body eliminate them faster:

• Chlorella & Spirulina – These algae are known for their ability to bind and detox radiation.
• Bentonite Clay & Activated Charcoal – Can help absorb and eliminate radioactive isotopes from the body.
• Pectin (from apples & citrus peels) – A natural detoxifier that may help remove radioactive residues.

3. Increase Antioxidants to Repair Radiation Damage. Ionizing radiation can cause oxidative stress and DNA damage, so boosting antioxidants is key:

• Glutathione – The body’s master detoxifier; can be boosted by taking NAC (N-acetylcysteine).
• Vitamin C – A powerful antioxidant for reducing oxidative stress. For best absorption, opt for an easily digestible form. Consider starting with 20g per day, adjusting the amount based on bowel tolerance. Vitamin C is so important that I devoted an entire chapter to it in my book, “I Used to Have Cancer.” Learn more in my article, “How Vitamin C Saved My Life.”
• Astaxanthin – A potent antioxidant that protects cells from radiation-induced damage.
• Turmeric/Curcumin – Helps counteract inflammation and support DNA repair. Learn how to put this spice to use in my article, “Kitchen Alchemy: Unleash Turmeric’s Power in These 5 Cancer-Fighting Recipes.”

>> I highly recommend you check out the 5 Fabulous Supplements I wouldn’t be without!

4. Nourish with Radiation-Detoxifying Foods. Your diet plays a huge role in detoxification. Focus on:

• Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage) – Support liver detox pathways. See: “Fill Your Plate with These Powerful Cancer-Fighting Foods.”
• Seaweeds (kelp, wakame, dulse) – Rich in iodine, which protects against radiation absorption. See my eye-opening interview with Dr. David Brownstein, “An Unsung Hero: Iodine’s Role in Preventing Cancer.”
• Berries (blueberries, blackberries, raspberries) – Packed with polyphenols that combat free radical damage. To learn more about putting the power of colors to work, see my article, “Fight Cancer with the Colors on Your Plate.”
• Healthy fats (avocados, olive oil, nuts, and seeds) – Help repair cell membranes damaged by radiation. Learn about the controversy over oils in our food supply. See: “Health Alert: One of THESE Restaurant Meals Equivalent of Chain-Smoking 20 Cigarettes.”

5. Take Epsom salt & baking soda baths – draws out toxins and radiation through the skin. See Ann Louise Gittleman’s recipe for success in her article: “Bathe Away Toxins.”

• Exercise & Sweat – Helps remove toxins through lymphatic movement and sweating (consider infrared sauna therapy!). See: “Lymphatic Exercises: The DIY Secret Weapon for Health.”
• Prioritize Deep Sleep – This is when your body repairs DNA and removes damaged cells. See: “5 Ridiculously Easy Ways to Reduce Your Cancer Risk.”

Final Thoughts

Radiation exposure from a single PET scan is generally low, but repeated scans can add up. By focusing on hydration, detoxifying foods, binding agents, and antioxidant support, you can help your body clear out radiation more efficiently and protect your long-term health.

Resources:

Beyer, Thomas, Willi A. Kalender, and Osama Mawlawi. 2016. “Hybrid Imaging Modalities.” Cancer Imaging 16 (1): 9. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40644-016-0091-3.

Pernot, Élodie, André Bouffler, and Guy G. Paquet. 2019. “The Role of Oxidative Stress in the Carcinogenic Effects of Low Doses of Ionizing Radiation.” Radioprotection 54 (2): 103-110. https://doi.org/10.1051/radiopro/2019004.

Yu, X., Li, X., Song, et al. “Advantages and disadvantages of F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography in carcinoma of unknown primary”. Oncology Letters 12, no. 5 (2016): 3785-3792. https://doi.org/10.3892/ol.2016.5203

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