Your way through cancer – 5 Nutritional Tips for cancer survivors

Cancer is said to be one of the most lethal and prolific diseases of our times. Modern science has however made significant advances in the field of cancer research over the last decade and it is increasingly common to see patients posting a full recovery if their disease is diagnosed and treated at early stages.

Once done with the cancer treatment, the most commonly asked question is– now what? After several months of different treatments and appointments it is time to take charge of the next phase of your journey. Good nutrition can help you to take control of your health as it is an important part of your care beyond cancer treatment.

A balanced and healthy diet is an important part of cancer treatment and survivorship. Proper intake of foods can promote strength and overall wellness in patients, as well as lower cancer risk. And taking in certain eating habits can also help combat common side effects of treatment, including nausea and weight loss.

Putting down some nutrition tips for cancer survivors, including how to properly balance your plate and boost immune function.

• Eat more fruits and vegetables – Including a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables that contain lots of essential nutrients and antioxidants, help fight against cancer. It is advised to eat a minimum of 5 servings of whole fruits and vegetables per day. And, patients undergoing treatment with a weakened immune system should consume cooked fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Choose Saturated fats – Replace saturated and trans fats with unsaturated fats. Cooking in olive oil and snacking on avocados and nuts should be encouraged. Keep in mind that since unsaturated fats can be high in calories, so limit your daily total fat intake to less than 30 percent of your total energy intake.
• Choose lean meat and limit red meat – Limit red meat to two or fewer servings per week and opt for lean meats, like chicken, turkey and fish instead. And, always remember to avoid charred meat and processed meat. As many studies have linked red meat to an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
• Stay Hydrated – It’s important to stay well-hydrated by drinking enough water to keep your system function normally. Moreover, drinking plenty of water can help you prevent dehydration after cancer treatment. However, avoid or limit the intake of caffeine, sweetened beverages as too much of it can lead to dehydration.
• Limit alcohol – For cancer prevention, it’s best not to drink alcohol. Alcohol in any form beer, wine, or liquor has been linked to cancer. People who choose to consume alcohol should limit these beverages to no more than 1 drink per day for a woman and 2 drinks per day for a man.

Not only a person’s dietary choices can make a whole difference but adding on some physical activity and maintaining healthy weight can help in the well-being of the condition.

Over to you:
Acknowledging that you have to get there slowly – not overnight with these goals. Pulling through cancer is a blessing and a second chance at leading a happy, healthy and full life.