A proper diet is really important for human body, especially for cancer patients. Eating the right type and amount of foods can help you fight cancer cells and stay healthy.
Cancer treatment such as radiotherapy or surgery may increase the demand for nutrients, particularly protein. Chemotherapy and other types of cancer treatment can lead to nutritional imbalances that may require special replacement.
Since the nutritional needs change during extended illness, the diet have to change as well. The health care society recommends low fat diet, such as fruit and vegetables and avoid fatty foods, baked or fried foods. Here are some best foods for fighting cancer:
Vegetables
Vegetables contain fiber and phytonutrients which are essential nutrient to help body fight cancer. Vegetables in the Brassica family (e.g, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, turnips, etc) may help keep thyroid activity in check which is often beneficial for cancer patients.
Fruits
Fruits are also contain phytonutrients that help your body detoxify and fight cancer. Although most fruits are sweet, they contain fiber that regulate the absorption of sugar therefore it doesn’t cause the same concern as eating refined sugar. Use fresh or frozen fruits and avoid canned fruits. Small portion of dried berries are also helpful.
Brown Rice
Brown rice is a good source of vitamins, fiber, protein, and minerals. It is a gluten free grains that contain important phytonutrients like lignans which are converted into cancer protective substances. Brown rice is also beneficial in lowering insulin reactivity.
Eating brown rice may helps prevent constipation, unlike white rice which can cause constipation. Brown rice is considered as a main grain for most diets.
In addiction to brown rice, wheat and other dairy products like milk, yogurt, chocolate, wild rice, whole wheat and corn are also good to consume for cancer patients.
Lemon Water
Drinking lemon juice every day helps alkalinize your body system, detoxifies and cleanses while supplying important nutrients such as vitamin C and bioflavonoids.
Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is an ideal substitute for dairy products in the diet. It contains Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) which is easily digested and converted into energy with minimize tension on the liver, pancreas and digestive system. MTCs are also important in keeping healthy immune system. Coconut milk can be consumed plain, mixed with rice milk, fruit or included in the recipe as a replacement for cream, milk and ingredients.
Beverages
Fluid intake should at least 2 liters per day. It include water, lemon juice, and your prescription herbal tea (if any). Do not drink herbal tea than those determined as the herbs because it may interfere your treatment plan and alter the biodisponibility of medical device.