Foods that can help in cancer treatment

Did you know your diet plays a significant role in reducing the risk of developing cancer? In fact, to some extent the cause and cure of cancer depends a lot on the food you eat and the healthy lifestyle you adapt. According to health experts, if you are undergoing cancer treatment then tweaking your diet with health-enriching fruits and vegetables can help in slowing down the growth of cancerous cells in the body and may also reduce the adverse side effects of the cancer treatment.

Apples contain a variety of phytochemicals, including Quercetin, Catechin, Phloridzine, and Chlorogenic acid, which are all major antioxidants. Apples are a good source of dietary fibre and polyphenol compounds that work with gut microbes to boost Cancer-fighting defences. Many studies found that consumption of Apples lowers risk of Estrogen Receptor i.e., negative form of Breast cancer

Some citrus fruits, particularly Tangerines and Oranges, have anti-angiogenic and anti-tumour activity. It is noted that individuals who eat citrus fruit daily have lower risk of certain cancers, including Lung cancer, Colorectal cancer and Stomach cancer. Two flavonoids abundant in citrus fruits are Nobiletin and Ascorbic Acid (vitamin C), which have been shown to inhibit the growth and spread of tumours.

Cranberry contains Ursolic acid and Proanthocyanidins. Regular consumption of Cranberry extract inhibits the growth of Breast cancer, Colon cancer, Cervical cancer, Glioblastoma, Leukaemia, Lung cancer, Melanoma, oral cavity cancer, Prostate cancer and Renal cancer cell lines

Berries are a rich source of many nutrients such as vitamin A, C, E, Carotenoids, Folate, Calcium, Selenium, simple and complex phenols & phytosterols. Anthocyanosides and Resveratrol are one of the most active antioxidants found in Blueberries. These antioxidants have anti-Cancer effects, including radical scavenging activity, activation of phase II detoxifying enzymes, and decreased proliferation and inflammation of cells. Resveratrol, which is also found in the skin of red Grapes, also has several health benefits. It also displays chemotherapeutic properties such as anti-inflammation

Eating certain fruits rich in Vitamin C can significantly improve your health, especially during and after Cancer treatment. Many fruits provide antioxidants to help fight the growth of Cancer cells and may even offer other health benefits to help ease certain side effects of treatment. Enjoying these healthy fruits in combination with a well-rounded diet that includes vegetables, and legumes (beans), good whole grain choices include whole Wheat, Oats/oatmeal, Rye, Barley, brown Rice, Millets, etc., can get you started on the road to recovery.

Article by Shweta Mahadik, Dietitian, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan ~

For vomiting, avoid eating until vomiting is controlled then try sipping on small amounts of clear liquids such as broth or cranberry juice. It may also be beneficial to nibble on plain foods such as Bread, Khakra or Crackers

Start with high-protein diet while your appetite is strongest

Keep favourite high-calorie foods and beverages within easy reach

Try to be as physically active as you can be, to help stimulate your appetite.

Have small and frequent meals

Eating foods and sipping on clear liquids at room temperature or cooler may be easier to tolerate

Avoid high-fat, greasy, spicy, or overly sweet foods

Drink plenty of liquids such as water, fruit juices, soup broth, Lemon water, black tea with Lemon

Eat small amounts of soft, bland foods.

Include water soluble foods such as Bananas, Apple, Oats etc in our diet