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Your dietary requirements and general health may be greatly impacted by cancer and its therapies. Constipation, diarrhoea, exhaustion, loss of taste, nausea, and vomiting are common side effects of radiation therapy and other therapies that might induce changes in appetite and weight. According to research, between 30% and 85% of cancer patients suffer from malnutrition, which can lead to problems, worse quality of life, and as much as 20% of cancer-related deaths.1 Therefore, maintaining an optimal cancer diet and regular consumption of cancer-fighting foods during treatment is essential for managing side effects, boosting energy, and improving overall health.
Synopsis
How Nutrition Affects Cancer?
Cancer develops when mutations in a cell's DNA lead to uncontrolled growth and spread throughout the body. Studies suggest that increased calorie and fat intake can raise the risk of cancer. However, consuming various cancer-reducing foods may help reduce this risk and enhance the body’s ability to cope with treatment.
Foods That Improve Cancer Nutrition
Protein-Rich Foods
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Plant-based proteins, such as beans, legumes, and vegetables, are great choices during cancer treatment, particularly Chemotherapy, as they provide essential nutrients. Lean animal proteins, like chicken and fish, can also be consumed in moderation.
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Beans and lentils are high in fibre, antioxidants, phytochemicals, and folate, which protect DNA from damage and lower the risk of colon cancer. Soybeans contain genistein, a compound being studied for its potential in treating prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers.
Healthy Fats
Incorporate monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, found in cancer foods like avocados, olive oil, grapeseed oil, and walnuts. These fats are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health.
Carbohydrates
Choose minimally processed carbohydrates like whole wheat, bran, and oats, which are rich in soluble fibre. This type of fibre promotes healthy gut bacteria and supports the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), crucial for metabolism and cellular repair.
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamins and minerals play an essential role in immune function and reducing inflammation. Foods fortified with vitamin D, such as milk, orange juice, yoghurt, and certain cereals, are particularly helpful during cancer treatment.
Fruits and Vegetables
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Apples contain flavonoids, phenolic acids, fibre, vitamin C, and antioxidants that protect cells from damage, prevent cancer recurrence, and inhibit cancer cell proliferation.
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Mushrooms offer immune-boosting benefits, antioxidants, and compounds that reduce inflammation and lower the risk of hormone-related cancers. These benefits are best achieved from fresh, cooked, or dried mushrooms.
Nuts and Seeds
Eating a handful of nuts daily may reduce cancer mortality. Flaxseed, in particular, is rich in magnesium, manganese, thiamine, protein, fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin E, all of which support immune health and inhibit cancer cell development.
Tea and Coffee
Both tea and coffee contain antioxidants that can help protect against various cancers. Coffee’s antioxidants are especially beneficial against endometrial cancer, while green tea polyphenols may disrupt cancer cell division, block blood vessel growth in tumours, and offer protection against prostate cancer.
Foods to Avoid During Cancer Treatment
To aid recovery, avoid highly processed foods, especially those containing hydrogenated oils, as they can increase inflammation. Foods high in refined sugars and white flour may impair glucose metabolism and contribute to diabetes, low fibre intake, and other health imbalances. Since cancer treatments often weaken the immune system, avoid foods that carry the risk of foodborne illness, including:
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Raw or lightly cooked fish (e.g., sushi)
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Soft-cooked eggs or dishes containing raw eggs (e.g., homemade mayonnaise)
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Unpasteurised dairy products and cheeses
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Unwashed fruits and vegetables
Enhancing Nutrition During Cancer Treatment
Dietary adjustments can help manage common side effects of cancer treatment. Consider these strategies:
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Appetite Loss: Eat smaller, more frequent meals or nutrient-dense snacks throughout the day.
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Constipation: Stay hydrated, add fibre-rich foods, and consider fibre supplements. Include more vegetables and beans in your diet.
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Diarrhoea: Replenish lost nutrients with foods rich in sodium and potassium
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Loss of Taste: Experiment with spices, marinades, or bold flavours like lemon or lime juice to make food more appetising.
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Nausea: Citrus, ginger, and peppermint oil can help alleviate nausea. Try ginger tea, ginger chews, or sucking on a lemon slice for relief.
If you experience reduced appetite or significant nutrient loss, a multivitamin may help. Vitamin D, in particular, supports immune function, reduces fatigue, and promotes bone health. Those on steroids should consider vitamin D supplements to prevent bone density loss.
Conclusion
Individuals diagnosed with cancer or undergoing treatment can experience difficulty with eating. Consuming a cancer diet rich in cancer-fighting foods can help reduce cancer severity and recurrence. When creating a personalised meal plan, consulting with a skilled dietician ensures that you maintain the right calorie-to-nutrient ratio throughout treatment. For a comprehensive cancer diet plan, visit Manipal Hospitals in Bhubaneswar immediately.
FAQ's
The cause of developing cancer is multifactorial. Poor eating habits combined with smoking, little exercise, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and prolonged sun exposure may lead to an increased risk of developing cancer.
Since all cells in the body, including cancerous ones, rely on carbohydrates for their primary energy, eliminating all sources of carbohydrates, which include grains, cereals, vegetables, and added sugar, may harm healthy cells while leaving cancer cells unharmed. Glucose is a type of simple sugar. Therefore, to prevent cancer and increase survival, it is essential to adhere to a healthy, balanced cancer diet.
It is advised to obtain the necessary vitamins and minerals through food sources. However, if you are unable to get the necessary nutrients from your diet, you can take a vitamin and mineral supplement after consulting with your healthcare provider.
Consuming red meat in moderation is okay. The red meat is sourced from beef, pork, lamb, and goat and is rich in iron, protein, vitamin B12, and zinc. However, frequently eating a high quantity of processed meat or red meat can increase the risk of cancer.
You can schedule an appointment at the Cancer Care Department of Manipal Hospitals, Bhubaneswar, by contacting us or visiting our website.
Visit: https://www.manipalhospitals.com/bhubaneswar/specialities/cancer-care/
Contact no: 0674 666 6600
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