Expert diet tips for people suffering from cancer

Fitness and wellness expert Namita Jain shares some tips on fighting cancer with the right diet.

By: Namita Jain | | Updated: February 3, 2014 5:16 pm

Battling a disease like cancer is not an easy feat. You need to be mentally strong and not lose hope to overcome this illness. While doctors try their best to remove the tumour from your body, you too can make your contribution in making your body healthy by eating the right food. It will not only make your body feel better and heal faster, but will give you mental satisfaction as well to an extent. Fitness and wellness expert Namita Jain shares some tips on fighting cancer with the right diet. Also Read - Cancer patients more likely to get severe COVID-19: Tips to prevent the viral infection

Studies indicate that those who are overweight by 20 kg or more double their risk of getting certain types of cancer. The American Cancer Institute stated that about one-third of all cancers are related to what we eat and another 30 per cent result from smoking. Your diet plays a vital role in your well-being. Also Read - Amazing health benefits of the Indian gooseberry

Eat a balanced diet Also Read - Study suggests texture of food affects perceptions of healthiness

The body needs nutrients from various food groups. The food you consume should include calories from proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals. No one food group is more important than another – for good health you need them all. Go easy on fats, oils and sweets so that your weight is in-check.

The total calorie consumption during the recuperation of cancer may need to be increased to prevent break down of tissues.

The body requires additional protein for tissue regeneration and healing.

Dietary supplements often need to be included, as advised by the doctor.

Spicy food is best avoided as it can cause nausea and stomach discomfort.

Dryness of the mouth is common during cancer treatment therefore soft, bland food is better tolerated.

Small meals, eaten frequently (every 2 -3 hours) are advised, rather than large meals.

Instead of frying; you can grill, roast, bake, stir-fry or blanch the food. Limit fat intake to less than 20 per cent of total calories.

Keep yourself well hydrated. This helps the kidneys to rid the body of toxins. Drink two to three litres of water daily.

To preserve nutrients, eat freshly cooked food, rather than frozen or packaged foods.

Fibre adds bulk to the food we eat and is an important source of roughage. Choose high-fibre foods such as multigrain, whole-wheat bread or brown rice.

Fruits and vegetables are fibre-rich foods that contain essential nutrients such as vitamins A and C, folate, iron, magnesium, potassium, and selenium. Eat three to five servings of fresh fruits and salad each day. Aim for a variety and pick your vegetables and fruits across the rainbow spectrum.
It is a myth that one has to stop eating non-veg food if they have cancer. Modest amounts of meat and dairy products are advised.

Quit smoking

Tobacco use not only causes cancer but it also interferes with cancer treatment and leads to poorer outcomes. Tobacco use has been linked to lung, head and neck cancers. (Read: Different ways to quit smoking)

Limit alcohol consumption

Do you know that one gram of alcohol equals 7 calories? Drinking too much will pile on pounds and also can interfere with your ongoing treatment. It is best to consult your doctor on the prescribed limit of alcohol intake depending on your condition.

Keep your mind and body calm

While it is important to eat right during your treatment, it is also important to keep your mind relaxed and at peace. It can be a trying time for you and your family but certain tips can help you keep your cool.

Try going for a massage once a fortnight or month. It will help release muscular tension and relax you.
Meditate regularly. Meditation helps calm the body and mind bringing them into a better state of balance.
Get enough sleep. A good night’s sleep reduces overall fatigue, anxiety and stress.
Breathe deep. Shut your eyes, and take 5 slow, calming breaths. Every time you inhale focus on breathing in calmness, and when you exhale – breathe out all mental fatigue.
Cultivate a hobby. It could be listening to music, playing the piano… do something every day that you enjoy.

While these are general guidelines that all cancer patients can follow, it is essential to discuss them once with your consulting doctor on any specific restrictions or additions to this routine based on your condition. (Read: Living (and dying) with cancer)

Namita Jain has carved a niche for herself in the fitness and wellness space with her brand ‘Jaldi Fit’ and company ‘Live Active’. Her career spans over 25 years and her unmatched list of qualifications let her stay ahead of the curve. She has authored several books on health and fitness and contributed articles for top publications as well. She conducts classes in aerobics, yoga, Pilates, step workout and interval training. She also features as a nutritionist on the TV channel Food Food in their health cookery programme. Namita was the nutrition partner for Miss Femina India 2012. For more information on her wellness programmes, visit her websites: www.liveactive.com and www.jaldifit.com

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Published : October 28, 2013 4:07 pm | Updated:February 3, 2014 5:16 pm

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