Written by:
Anoushka Pinto
Cancer patients in India often face various nutritional challenges during their treatment. Eating a balanced and nutrient-rich diet can help cancer patients improve their overall health, maintain their strength, and support their recovery. Let’s take a closer look at the specific nutritional needs of cancer patients and understand how their diet can be optimised for better health outcomes.
The role of diet in cancer treatment and prevention
Diet plays a crucial role in cancer treatment and prevention. Side effects of treatment such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite can make it difficult for patients to sustain a healthy diet. A balanced diet can help cancer patients maintain their strength and prevent weight loss, which is another common consequence of cancer treatments. Moreover, a nutrient-rich diet can support the body’s immune system, which helps fight cancer cells, and also help the body handle higher doses of drugs and cancer medication.
Not only that, but a healthy and balanced diet, combined with physical activity, plays a crucial role in the primary prevention of cancer, and also reduces the risk of the development of certain cancerous tumours. Research shows that a balanced diet could prevent at least 4 million cases of cancer, while being overweight can increase the risk of cancer by 2.5 times.
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Macronutrients and food choices that help improve cancer outcomes
Nutritional requirements
Proteins repair and heal body tissue, and help in building muscle, while also preventing infections
Antioxidants help eliminate the free radicals which may cause tumour generation, and help prevent cell damage
Fibre plays a major role in managing gastrointestinal-related cancers
Complex carbohydrates give energy to carry on the daily tasks of living and also help maintain blood sugar levels
Probiotics can help improve gut health.
Vitamins and minerals are needed to facilitate the smooth functioning of the body and to use the energy in food.
Phytonutrients or plant compounds like carotenoids, lycopene, resveratrol, and phytosterols have health-protecting qualities
Foods to eat
Whole grains
Brown rice, whole wheat, oats, jowar, bajra ragi
Fruits
Banana, citrus fruits, berries, papaya, pineapple, avocado, guava
Properly cooked vegetables
Cereals
Beans
Kidney beans, navy beans, pinto beans, black-eyed beans, broad beans, cluster beans, french beans
Milk products
Low fat milk, yoghurt, low fat paneer.
Nuts and seeds
White meat and red meat in limited proportion
Fish like salmon, sardines, trout, mackerel, tuna
Soups and broths
Plenty of water
Fish like salmon, sardines, trout, mackerel, tuna
Soups and broths
Plenty of water
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Foods to avoid
Oily food
Junk food
Sugar (limited)
Cream, mayonnaise, cheese
Salads
Half-cooked foods
Unpasteurised milk and juices
Fatty foods
Smoked/cured meats and meat products
Foods refrigerated after cooking
Caffeinated beverages
Alcohol
Disclaimer
Consult a qualified nutritionist or dietitian to tailor the diet plan to your individual needs.
Recommended micronutrients and vitamins for cancer patients
Cancer patients may benefit from addressing any micronutrient and vitamin deficiencies they might have in order to promote their overall health and wellness.
Vitamin C protects cells and prevents certain cancers
Vitamin D prevents certain cancers
Vitamin E neutralises cell damage
Carotenoids inhibit the growth of cancer cells
Selenium is a powerful antioxidant
Soy Isoflavones protect against hormone related cancers
Folic Acid is important for proper synthesis and repair of DNA
Lycopene inhibits prostate cancer
Omega-3 and Omega-6-polyunsaturated fatty acids reduce the inflammation in tissues
Flavonoids helps stimulate enzymes in the body that combat cancer cell growth
Calcium reduces the irritant effects of bile acids and fatty acids in the colon
Catechins neutralise free radicals
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A guide to creating a healthy meal plan for cancer patients
Cancer patients may benefit from addressing any micronutrient and vitamin deficiencies they might have in order to promote their overall health and wellness.
A healthy diet plan for cancer patients in India should aim to provide a balance of macronutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, along with micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals.
Eating small and frequent meals throughout the day can help cancer patients maintain their calorie and nutrient intake. It can also help reduce nausea and vomiting.
The recommended daily calorie intake for a cancer patient is 25-30 kcal per kg of their weight.
Proteins are the most important component of any diet and the recommended amount to be consumed each day is 1.5g per kg.
A variety of foods should be included in the meal plan to ensure that the patient gets all the necessary nutrients.
Light exercise can help stimulate appetite and reduce fatigue. Moreover, regular exercise can help maintain muscle mass and improve overall strength, which is essential for fighting cancer.
Stress can cause inflammation and oxidative damage to tissue and reduce immunity. Practice stress reduction techniques to help manage stress levels and get plenty of sleep.
A healthy diet can help to reduce treatment side effects, improve overall well being, and potentially even improve prognosis. It is important to understand the dietary and nutritional requirements for cancer patients, and they should be tailored to the individual’s needs, taking into account their cancer treatment, stage, and general health. With the right help and support, it is possible for cancer patients to continue living healthy and active lifestyles throughout their treatments and beyond.
How Milaap can help
The cost of cancer treatment in India can be overwhelming for many families, often running into lakhs of rupees for procedures like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. For those struggling with these financial burdens, the situation can feel hopeless. This is where Milaap steps in, providing a lifeline for those in need.
Milaap’s crowdfunding platform allows individuals and communities to raise funds for cancer treatment, easing the financial strain and giving patients a fighting chance. By starting a fundraiser on Milaap, you can be assured that you don’t have to face cancer alone or without the necessary resources. Start your fundraiser today!
Success stories on Milaap
In times of need, support means everything, and with Milaap, you need not look any further. Milaap enables you to set up a fundraiser for any medical emergency within minutes, and you can easily raise funds for treatment expenses.
Do you know someone who could benefit from fundraising? Simply refer them to us and we’ll be happy to lend a hand.
Visit www.milaap.org or call us on +91 9916174848 to get started now.
For more information, write to us at cx@milaap.org.
