Eating Healthy During Cancer: A Beginner's Guide

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. These cells can invade and damage surrounding tissues, forming masses or tumours. Cancer can occur in various parts of the body and may have different causes, including genetic factors, environmental exposures, and lifestyle choices.

To be able to fight the disease, the human body needs energy. Chemotherapy, radiation and other cancer treatments take a toll on the body, too. As a result of this, one might lose weight – which is in this case, not a good thing.

Certain foods are believed to have cancer-preventing properties due to their rich nutritional content and potential anti-cancer effects. The key is to eat when you're hungry. If that's in the morning, make breakfast the biggest meal. Drink meal replacements later if your appetite fades as the day goes on. Have a small, healthy snack on hand, too. Yoghurt, cereal, cheese and crackers, and soup are all good choices. Other than this, vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts contain compounds that may help combat cancer. Berries, packed with antioxidants, may also play a role in preventing cell damage. Additionally, garlic, turmeric, and green tea have been studied for their potential anti-cancer properties. 

Consuming a diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins provides essential nutrients and supports overall health, potentially reducing the risk of cancer.

Avoiding highly processed and sugary foods is advisable, as they provide little nutritional value and may contribute to weight gain. It's also key that you don't eat raw or undercooked meat, fish, and poultry. Don't eat foods or drink unpasteurized beverages. Many side effects of cancer treatments can make it hard to get enough to eat.

Your diet may help you get past some of the most common issues like:

• Nausea/vomiting: Avoid high-fat, greasy, or spicy foods or those with strong smells. 

• Diarrhea and constipation: For diarrhoea, it’s really important to stay hydrated. Drink lots of liquids, and cut back on high-fiber foods like whole grains and vegetables. If you’re constipated, slowly add more high-fiber foods to your diet. 

• Change in taste: Treatment can have a funny effect on one’s taste buds. Things you didn't like before might taste good now. So be open to new foods. See if you like sour or tart flavours like ginger or pomegranates. 

Balancing nutrition during cancer treatment is vital to support the body's strength and resilience. Emphasizing a diet rich in nutrient-dense foods while avoiding those that may worsen symptoms can contribute to a holistic approach to cancer care.