Cancer patients are often bombarded with contradictory information about nutrition. It may feel impossible to navigate through the different dietary recommendations to find the best option for you. It seems as if every "expert" has a different idea of the perfect diet, the fight against cancer.
With so many different opinions, patients do not know where to turn or information to trust. In these times overwhelming, it is important for patients with mesothelioma cancer or another to look for someone with experience working with cancer patients. One of the best methods to find nutrition plan for you is to talk with a dietitian in oncology.
For online support group session this month, we invited Tejal Parekh, a board certified dietitian specializing in nutrition for cancer patients. As a dietitian in oncology, she was able to debunk the common myths of nutrition, in addition to providing advice and useful tips to limit the side effects of treatment while overcoming common problems for patients.
recommendations for cancer prevention
The American Institute for Cancer Research is an excellent resource regarding the latest trends in the cancer treatment and medical advances.
Learn their seven recommendations for cancer prevention.
Be as lean as possible without becoming underweight
Maintaining a healthy weight can make a huge difference regarding the risk of cancer. It has an even greater impact after a cancer diagnosis that many patients must balance a decrease appetite with a need for good nutrition. It is important to eat a healthy number of calories each day to maintain a healthy weight.
Be physically active for at least 30 minutes every day
A cancer diagnosis can make the exercise more difficult than you might have to overcome fatigue and treatment side effects related to cancer . Despite these challenges, increasing your physical activity can improve other aspects of your life such as appetite, stress levels, self-image and energy levels.
Avoid sugary drinks and limit consumption of energy-dense foods
For years we were told by medical professionals that drinks such as soda and juice, can do more harm than help. This becomes especially true after a cancer diagnosis when the appetite levels may be low and you can fill with unhealthy options.
Eat more of a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes
Did you know that experts recommend at least half of your plate is filled with fruits and vegetables? Not only do these foods contain a large number of micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), but they also contain antioxidants, which have been proven to help fight cancer.
Limit red meat and avoid processed meats
Recent studies have shown that high consumption of red meat (beef, pork and lamb) can be connected to an increased risk of developing variety of cancers such as lung, pancreas and esophagus. In addition, processed meats - ham, turkey, bacon, salami, mortadella - contain a lot of preservatives that have been linked to a higher risk of cancer
Limit daily alcohol consumption
Many. Oncologists recommend cutting alcohol feeding a patient completely, but if consumed in moderation (two glasses for men, one drink for women), alcohol can have a protective effect on coronary heart disease. In addition, patients are encouraged to participate in family activities and events with or without alcohol. Remember, moderation is the key
Limit consumption of salty foods
Swelling is a common side effect of a variety of treatments against cancer .. High levels of sodium can cause your body to retain fluid, which can cause swelling of your hands and feet.
Impact of nutrition on cancer prognosis
Cancer patients often suffer from unintended consequences, such as weight and muscle loss, which can hurt the overall prognosis of a patient.
If you are looking for nutritional advice, contact a registered dietitian in oncology to find the best diet for you. Many cancer centers have nutritionists on staff to help patients in need of food support.
Living with cancer is difficult enough, but some lifestyle changes - including diet and nutrition - can make a huge difference in regards to your symptom management and ultimately your prognosis
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