Cancer isn't the death sentence it was only a generation ago. Of the more than 10 million Americans who have had some form of the disease, almost 60 percent are still alive five years after being diagnosed.

The American Cancer Society recently updated its tips for self-care during both chemotherapy and radiation treatment:

1. Exercise, if only a little bit. As few as one to three hours weekly cuts the risk of relapse of some kinds of cancer and generally reduces fatigue.
2. Use common over-the-counter vitamin and mineral supplements to help ensure good nutrition, especially if you can't eat properly. Look for pills that provide 100 percent of recommended daily allowances (RDA). If you're in treatment, stay away from OTC supplements that contain extra folic acid or antioxidants.
3. If you're a vegetarian, take extra care to ensure you're getting all the nutrients your body needs. No link has been established between eating a vegetarian diet and staying in remission, but any well-balanced diet supports good overall health.
4. Be as diligent as possible about preparing food safely, especially if your immune system is suppressed.