According to the studies, it is an undeniable fact that nutrition plays an important role in cancer prevention, treatment, and survival. Although the importance of food in cancer treatment is often disregarded, it is one of the crucial changes you need to bring into your lifestyle. Few foods can turn out to be deadly while others can help you fight against rapidly growing cancer cells.
Being diagnosed with cancer can be very disturbing both physically and mentally. It is even normal to not feel the hunger however it is important to make a few changes in your diet to start this journey of fighting cancer. Every person has different dietary needs so it is advisable to check with your cancer specialist in Siliguri before you add and remove a particular food from your diet.
Let's see how nutrition supports cancer prevention, treatment, and survival in detail:
1. Nutrition and cancer prevention
What food you are eating can either help with your overall well-being or increase the risk rate of cancer cells developing in your body. Through better choices in our diet, it is possible to protect yourself against the development of these deadly cells.
Key nutritional factors in cancer prevention
- Eat more plant-based foods
More vegies and fruits in your diet can not only help in fighting cancer but also treat several ailments coming your way.
- Limit sugar intake
Sugar can be deadly to our bodies. Unlike natural sugar from fruits and veggies, added sugar increases the risk of cancer. Keeping your sugar content limited in your system can rejuvenate your cells.
- Fiber
A healthy weight matters a lot in your cancer and eating fiber which sends a message to your brain telling it that the stomach is full. This will help manage your weight which will in turn help in making the body fit to fight cancer.
- Alcohol
Alcohol increases the chances of having throat and breast cancer and results in various issues.
2. Nutrition for cancer cure
With no evidence that diet treats cancer, but does help you indirectly to fight against it. With the right nutrition, it will not only strengthen the body's repair ability but also help in strengthening the immune system. A well-balanced food helps shield you against cancer.
Here are some of the foods you should add during your cancer treatment:
- Healthy fats
Healthy fat can help combat inflammation and foods high in omega-3 fatty acids like avocado, walnut, and olive oil can help strengthen your cardiovascular health.
- Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins and minerals help in boosting immune strength and reduce any inflammation. Vitamin D is a great source for increasing your immunity and supporting bone health to fight against cancer. It also reduces fatigue from treatment side effects.
3. Nutrition after cancer treatment
Cancer treatment comes with various side effects which result in degrading your quality of life. However, with proper care and the right diet, you can recover significantly and feel better in your health.
A healthy diet after surviving cancer and how your body reacts to certain foods matters. It would be best to consult with your Preventive Oncologist in Siliguri to offer a diet plan for you.
Common foods you can add are:
- Vegetable and fruits
- No-fat dairy
- Plant proteins
- Green veggies and fresh fruits
- Whole grains
Conclusion
The right food that your body needs can help you fight your cancer. A diet filled with nutritious food will manage your treatment side effects along with improving your health. Based on your cancer specialist in Siliguri dietary recommendation, you can add the right food to your diet.
