Nutrition for oncological diseases: what can and cannot eat

Nutrition for oncological diseases: what can and cannot eat

I. The basic principles of nutrition of cancer patients

Nutrition for oncological diseases (cancer) plays a critical role in maintaining the body’s forces, minimizing side effects of treatment, improving the quality of life and potential effects on the prognosis. Oncological disease and its treatment, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery, often lead to changes in appetite, digestion and assimilation of nutrients. Therefore, adequate and adapted nutrition is necessary to support the immune system, restore tissues, maintain the energy balance and reduce the risk of complications. The basic principles of nutrition of cancer patients include:

• Personalized approach: Food should be adapted to a specific type of cancer, the stage of the disease, the treatment, the individual characteristics of the patient and its side effects of treatment. There is no universal diet for all cancer patients. Consultation with a dietitian oncologist is recommended for the development of an individual food plan.

• Maintaining sufficient calorie content: Oncological diseases often lead to weight loss (cachexia), which is associated with the worst forecast. It is necessary to consume a sufficient number of calories to maintain the energy balance and prevent the loss of muscle mass. In some cases, an increase in the calorie content of the diet may require.

• Adequate protein consumption: Protein is necessary to restore tissues, maintain the immune system and prevent the loss of muscle mass. It is recommended to consume a sufficient amount of protein, especially during and after treatment. Sources of protein include meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, legumes and nuts.

• Sufficient fluid consumption: Dehydration can aggravate the side effects of treatment, such as nausea, vomiting and constipation. It is necessary to consume a sufficient amount of liquid, such as water, herbal teas, broths and fruit juices (if there are no contraindications).

• Restriction of sugar and simple carbohydrates: High sugar consumption can contribute to the growth of the tumor and worsen the state of health. It is recommended to limit the use of sugar, sweet drinks, white bread and other simple carbohydrates.

• The use of complex carbohydrates: Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grain products, vegetables and fruits, provide the body with energy and fiber. Fiber is important to maintain the normal function of the intestine and prevent constipation.

• The choice of beneficial fats: Saturated and trans fats can be harmful to health. It is recommended to choose useful fats, such as unsaturated fats contained in olive oil, avocados, nuts and fish.

• The rich content of vitamins and minerals: Vitamins and minerals are necessary to maintain the immune system and the normal function of the body. It is recommended to use a variety of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals. In some cases, the intake of vitamin-mineral complexes as prescribed by the doctor may be required.

• Food safety: Oncological patients often have a weakened immune system, so it is important to observe the safety rules of food products in order to avoid food poisoning. It is necessary to thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables, cook meat and poultry until cooked and avoid the use of raw or nonpasturized products.

• Regular nutrition in small portions: Nausea and loss of appetite can make it difficult to use large portions of food. It is recommended to eat regularly in small portions during the day.

• Adaptation to side effects of treatment: Cancer treatment can cause various side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite and a change in taste. It is necessary to adapt the power to these side effects in order to alleviate the symptoms and improve the quality of life.

• Consideration of alternative and additional treatment methods: Some patients use alternative and additional treatment methods, such as herbal additives and special diets. It is important to discuss these methods of treatment with a doctor, as they can interact with the traditional treatment of cancer or have side effects.

• Family and friends support: Nutrition plays an important role in maintaining the forces of the body and improving the quality of life of cancer patients. Support from family and friends can help the patient observe a diet and overcome the difficulties associated with nutrition.

II. Products recommended for oncological diseases

The choice of food for cancer should be aimed at providing the body with the necessary nutrients, strengthening the immune system and maintaining forces. It is recommended to include the following groups of products in the diet:

1. Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are rich sources of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber. Antioxidants help protect the cells from damage caused by free radicals. Fiber contributes to the normal function of the intestine and prevents constipation.

   • Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries are rich in antioxidants, especially anthocyans. Anthocyans have anti -inflammatory and anti -cancer properties.

   • Dark green leafy vegetables: Spinach, cabbage, broccoli are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Broccoli contains sulforafan, a compound that can help in the fight against cancer.

   • Cross -stained vegetables: Cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels cabbage contain glucosinolates that can help in the fight against cancer.

   • Orange and yellow vegetables and fruits: Carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, apricots, mangoes are rich in beta-carotene, which is an antioxidant and can be transformed into vitamin A.

   • Citrus fruit: Orange, grapefruits, lemons, limes are rich in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant and can help in strengthening the immune system.

   • Apples: Contain quercetin, antioxidant with anti -inflammatory and anti -cancer properties.

   • Bananas: A good source of potassium, which can be useful in diarrhea caused by the treatment of cancer. Easily absorbed.

2. Whole grain products: All -grain products, such as oatmeal, brown rice, whole grain bread, cinema and buckwheat, are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals. Fiber contributes to the normal function of the intestine and helps to control the level of blood sugar.

3. Low -fat sources of protein: Protein is necessary to restore tissues, maintain the immune system and prevent the loss of muscle mass. It is recommended to choose low -fat sources of protein, such as:

   • Fish: Especially fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.

   • Bird: Chicken and turkey without skin are good sources of protein.

   • Legumes: Beans, lentils, peas are good sources of protein and fiber.

   • Eggs: Eggs are an excellent source of protein and other nutrients.

   • Tofu and other soy products: Tofu and other soy products are good sources of protein and isoflavon, which have anti -cancer properties. However, with breast cancer, you should consult a doctor about the use of soybeans.

4. Useful fats: Useful fats, such as unsaturated fats contained in olive oil, avocados, nuts and seeds, are important for the health of the heart and brain.

   • Olive oil: Richly mono -saturated fats and antioxidants.

   • Avocado: A good source of mono -saturated fats, fiber and vitamins.

   • Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds are good sources of healthy fats, protein and fiber.

5. Dairy products (or alternatives): Dairy products are good sources of calcium and vitamin D, which are important to bone health. If you have lactose intolerance, you can consume lactose dairy products or alternatives, such as soy milk, almond milk or oatmeal, enriched with calcium and vitamin D. With certain types of cancer (for example, prostate cancer), the use of milk products should be discussed with the doctor.

6. Water and other liquids: Dehydration can aggravate the side effects of treatment. It is necessary to consume a sufficient amount of liquid, such as water, herbal teas, broths and fruit juices (if there are no contraindications). Ginger tea can help with nausea.

7. Spices and herbs: Some spices and herbs have anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

   • Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a compound that has anti -inflammatory and anti -cancer properties.

   • Ginger: Can help with nausea.

   • Garlic: It has anti -cancer properties.

   • Green tea: Rich in antioxidants.

8. Probiotics: Probiotics are living microorganisms that can benefit the intestinal health. They can be found in yogurt, kefir and other fermented products. Probiotics can be useful for diarrhea caused by antibiotics or chemotherapy. However, before using probiotics, you should consult a doctor, especially if you have a weakened immune system.

III. Products that should be avoided or limited to cancer

Some products can worsen the health status of cancer, aggravate the side effects of treatment or even contribute to the growth of the tumor. It is recommended to avoid or limit the use of the following products:

1. Sugar and sweet drinks: High sugar consumption can contribute to the growth of the tumor and worsen the state of health. It is recommended to avoid or limit the use of sugar, sweet drinks, sweets, pastries and other sweet products. You should read the labels of products to identify hidden sugar sources, such as corn syrup with a high fructose content.

2. Processed products: Processed products, such as sausage, bacon, hot dogs and other meat processing products, often contain a lot of salt, fat and additives. They can also contain nitrites and nitrates that can be carcinogenic. It is recommended to avoid or limit the use of processed products.

3. Red meat: High consumption of red meat, especially fried or cooked at high temperature, can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer. It is recommended to limit the use of red meat up to 1-2 times a week and choose low-fat pieces of meat. It is preferable to steam the meat, cook or bake, and not fry.

4. Transjir’s: Transfiders are a type of fat contained in processed products, such as margarine, baking and fried foods. Transfiders can increase the level of “poor” cholesterol and increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. It is recommended to avoid the use of trans fats.

5. Saturated fats: Saturated fats are found in animal products, such as meat, dairy products and eggs. High consumption of saturated fats can increase the level of “poor” cholesterol and increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. It is recommended to limit the use of saturated fats and choose low -fat sources of protein and dairy products.

6. Alcohol: Alcohol consumption can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer. It is recommended to avoid drinking alcohol or limit its use to moderate quantities (no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two drinks per day for men). Alcohol can also interact with some drugs used to treat cancer.

7. Salt: High salt consumption can increase blood pressure and increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. It is recommended to limit salt consumption and avoid the use of processed products that often contain a lot of salt. Instead of salt, you can use herbs and spices to give the taste of food.

8. Fried food: Fried food often contains a lot of fat and calories, and its preparation can lead to the formation of harmful substances. It is recommended to avoid drinking fried foods and choose other methods of cooking, such as cooking, baking or steaming.

9. Raw or undercooked products: Oncological patients often have a weakened immune system, so it is important to avoid the use of raw or undercooked foods such as raw meat, poultry, fish, eggs and nonpasturized dairy products to avoid food poisoning. It is necessary to carefully prepare meat and poultry until cooked and consume only pasteurized dairy products.

10. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice: Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with some drugs used to treat cancer, and change their effect. You should consult a doctor before using grapefruit or grapefruit juice.

11. Herbal additives and vitamins in high doses: Some herbal additives and vitamins can interact with the traditional treatment of cancer or have side effects. All herbal additives and vitamins that you take should be discussed with a doctor. Vitamins should be taken only as prescribed by a doctor. Reception of high doses of vitamins can be harmful.

12. Products with high mold: In oncological patients with a weakened immune system, the risk of developing infections caused by mold can be increased. The use of products with a high mold of mold, such as old nuts, grain and some cheeses, should be avoided.

13. Nepasturized honey: It contains disputes of botulism that are dangerous for patients with weakened immunity.

IV. Nutrition for various types of cancer treatment

Cancer treatment can cause various side effects that can affect nutrition. Adaptation of nutrition to these side effects can help alleviate the symptoms and improve the quality of life.

1. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy can cause nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, constipation, ulcers in the mouth and a change in taste.

   • Nausea and vomiting: It is recommended to eat small portions during the day, avoid eating fatty and spicy foods, drink ginger tea or ginger candy, take anti -excavation drugs as a doctor.

   • Loss of appetite: It is recommended to eat, even if there is no appetite, choose the products that you like, use food additives, if necessary, and seek advice to a nutritionist.

   • Diarrhea: It is recommended to drink a lot of fluids, avoid eating fatty and spicy foods, consume products rich in potassium (bananas, potatoes), and take medications for diarrhea as a doctor’s prescription.

   • Constipation: It is recommended to drink a lot of liquids, use foods rich in fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grain products), and take laxatives as prescribed by a doctor.

   • Taries in the mouth: It is recommended to eat soft food, avoid eating spicy, acidic and salty foods, rinse the mouth with saline or soda solution and use anesthetic gels as prescribed by the doctor.

   • Change in taste: It is recommended to experiment with different products and spices to find what you like and use plastic dishes if the metal flavor interferes.

2. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy can cause side effects depending on the area of ​​irradiation. For example, radiation therapy of the head and neck can cause ulcers in the mouth, dry mouth, difficulty swallowing and a change in taste. Radiation therapy of the abdominal cavity can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite.

   • Taries in the mouth: (see above)

   • Dry mouth: It is recommended to drink a lot of liquids, chew chewing gum without sugar, use artificial saliva and moisturize the lips.

   • Difficult swallowing: It is recommended to eat soft and puree foods, avoid eating dry and solid foods and use fluid thickeners, if necessary.

   • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite: (see above)

3. Surgery: After surgical intervention, it is important to use a sufficient amount of protein to restore tissues. It is recommended to eat small portions during the day and avoid eating fatty and spicy foods. Depending on the type of surgical intervention, there may be additional dietary recommendations. For example, after removing part of the intestine, a low fiber diet may be required.

4. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy: These types of cancer treatment can cause various side effects, including diarrhea, skin rash, fatigue and changes in the thyroid function. Adaptation of nutrition to these side effects can help alleviate the symptoms and improve the quality of life. It is important to discuss with the doctor all the side effects of treatment and get recommendations on nutrition.

V. Special diets and additives for oncological diseases

Many oncological patients are interested in special diets and additives that can help in the fight against cancer. However, it is important to remember that there is no scientific evidence that any special diet or additive can cure cancer. Some diets and additives may even be harmful. Before starting any special diet or reception of additives, you need to consult a doctor.

1. Ketogenic diet: A ketogenic diet is a high fat diet, a moderate protein content and a very low carbohydrate content. Some studies show that a ketogenic diet can slow down the tumor growth in some types of cancer, but additional studies are needed. A ketogenic diet can be difficult to observe and can cause side effects, such as constipation, fatigue and dehydration. Ketogenic diet is not recommended for patients with some diseases such as kidney and liver diseases.

2. Alkaline diet: An alkaline diet is a diet that is aimed at increasing blood pH. It is believed that cancer cells grow better in an acidic environment. However, there is no scientific evidence that the alkaline diet can cure cancer. The body regulates blood pH on its own, and the diet cannot significantly change the blood pH.

3. Gerson’s diet: Gerson’s diet is a diet that includes the use of a large number of organic fruits and vegetables, as well as taking special additives and enemas. There is no scientific evidence that Gerson’s diet can cure cancer. Gerson’s diet can be dangerous, as it can lead to a deficiency of nutrients and other health problems.

4. Vitamin C in high doses: Some studies show that vitamin C in high doses can slow down the growth of the tumor in some types of cancer, but additional studies are needed. Vitamin C in high doses can cause side effects, such as diarrhea and nausea. Vitamin C can interact with some drugs used to treat cancer.

5. Curcumin: Kurkumin is an active connection of turmeric. Some studies show that Kurkumin can have anti -inflammatory and anti -cancer properties. However, additional studies are needed. Kurkumin is poorly absorbed by the body.

6. Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies show that omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the side effects of cancer treatment.

7. Probiotics: Probiotics can help with diarrhea caused by cancer treatment.

VI. Tips for improving appetite and nutrition

Loss of appetite and nutrition problems are often found in cancer patients. The following tips can help improve appetite and meals:

• Eat in small portions during the day: Instead of three large meals, eat 5-6 small meals during the day.
• Eat when you feel better: If you have periods of time when you feel better, use this time to eat food.
• Choose the products that you like: Do not force yourself to have what you don’t like.
• Make food attractive: Serve the food beautifully and appetizing.
• Avoid fluid use during meals: Drink a lot of liquids during food can lead to a feeling of satiety.
• Use products with high calories and protein: Add oil, cheese, nuts and other products with a high calorie and protein content to food.
• Use food additives: If you cannot get enough nutrients from food, use food additives as a doctor’s prescription.
• Engage in easy physical activity: Easy physical activity can help improve appetite.
• Seek a nutritionalist for advice: A nutritionist can help develop an individual nutrition plan that meets your needs.
• Listen to your body: Eat when hungry, and stop eating when they are full. Do not force yourself to eat, if you do not want to.
• Let’s allow yourself to be indulgent: Sometimes you can afford small concessions, even if it is not the most healthy food. It is important to maintain a good mood and enjoy food.

VII. The role of a nutritionist in the treatment of cancer

An oncologist-dietitologist plays an important role in the treatment of cancer. A nutritionist can:

• Evaluate your needs for nutrients.
• Develop an individual food plan that meets your needs.
• Help you cope with side effects of treatment.
• Provide information about special diets and additives.
• Teach you proper nutrition.
• Support you throughout the treatment.

Consultation with a nutritionist can help improve the quality of life and increase the effectiveness of treatment. It is important to contact qualified specialists and avoid advice from unreliable sources.