Diet for Cancer Patients: 5 Healthy Meal Options to Aid Recovery

• Written by Nidhi Goyal

  Reviewed by Akhil Pillai

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Diet and nutrition play a key role during cancer treatment. A good diet can aid recovery, while a poor diet can slow the treatment process. Eating and drinking a balanced diet can help manage cancer treatment side effects such as diarrhoea, loss of taste, nausea, etc. The immune system is often weakened by the disease; however, dietary changes can help strengthen itCancer causes a lot of physical changes. It weakens the immune system, making a person prone to infections. Thus, making the right lifestyle and dietary changes, both during and after the treatment, is essential. Apart from receiving the correct treatment, cancer patients need to have a healthy diet that will nourish the body and aid in the recovery process. Including the right foods in the diet for cancer patients helps cope with the disease. Moreover, several studies show dietary habits linked to an increase or decrease in risks of cancer.  For cancer survivors, it is vital to eat a balanced and nutritious diet to prevent recurrence of the disease.

>>Also Read: Living with Cancer: How To Take Care of Physical and Mental Health?

So, what should be the ideal meal plan for cancer patients?

Choosing a Diet Plan for Cancer Patients

Depending on their condition, the nutrient requirements for cancer patients may differ. Consulting a nutritionist or a doctor can help in setting the right diet goals. Cancer patients need to eat healthy meals to enhance their energy levels, strengthen their bodies, maintain a healthy body weight, lower the risk of infection, cope with treatment side effects, and boost recovery.

1. Proteins

Muscle loss is common among people with cancer. Thus, proteins become a vital part of the diet plan for cancer patients. Some high-protein sources include milk, cheese, yogurt, nuts, seeds, pulses, beans, lean meats, and eggs

2. Water

Drinking water has many health benefits. A person recovering from cancer should drink plenty of liquids, especially water. Fresh juices can also provide essential vitamins and minerals.

3. Vegetables and Fruits

Some vegetables, like carrots and tomatoes, have cancer-fighting properties, including antioxidants and phytochemicals. Similarly, fruits provide many benefits in fighting cancer. They are also rich in fiber, which helps with constipation, a common complaint among cancer patients

4. Spices

Some spices such as turmeric, garlic, and cinnamon are among the best foods for cancer patients.  They have remarkable anti-cancer qualities that help in preventing the spreading of cancer cells. Patients may undergo taste changes. Spices make the meals appear appetizing and also boost immunity.

5. Grain-based foods

Carbohydrates are also an essential requirement for people who have cancer. Wholegrain foods like whole wheat or brown rice, are excellent alternatives to other unhealthy sources of carbohydrates, including refined grains. Honey, when eaten in moderation, will immensely benefit with its immense anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties for preventing and healing infections. 

Final Word

A well-balanced diet is highly necessary for those who are fighting cancer. Cancer treatment, involving chemotherapy and surgery, can be harsh on the body. Patients may go through the challenges of decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, and other problems that get in the way of getting proper nutrition. One approach to improve appetite is by increasing physical activity to pave the way for adequate calorie intake for a cancer patient. Further, there are also certain foods to avoid for cancer patients, for instance, preserved foods like pickles or jams, as well as sugary, salty, and deep-fried foods.

Although there are no foods that completely cure cancer, yet, following a healthy diet goes a long way in achieving the optimal results and helps a patient reach closer to a healthier life.

Opt for cancer mediclaim from Care Health Insurance and cover your treatment and hospitalization expenses. 

>> Check: Food Items To Prevent Cancer

Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.