Cancer Fighting Foods

Use food as medicine--this is so true for those fighting cancer.  Several studies have shown that cancer patients who are well nourished live longer than those who are malnourished.  Malnourishment happens in the later stages of cancer--after prolonged illness or chemotherapy or lack of appetite. It is important to maintain a healthy weight while undergoing treatment.

I spend an hour for every new cancer patient to discuss their diet.  We review the diet and patient's progress at every follow-up visit.  I have a list of foods that I highly recommend to patients but I often tailor-fit recommendations to match the type of cancer, body weight, other illnesses to consider and personal preferences.

Here is a list of potent cancer fighting foods.  The ratios of the foods may differ depending on the type or stage of cancer.  This list is based on research done by Dr. Richard Beliveau, PhD, a researcher and professor at the University of Montreal in Canada who did research by investigating what types of foods or food derivatives can inhibit cancer lines in the lab.

 

Garlic, leeks, scallions, onions--these all belong to the allium family and contain potent anti-oxidants, immune stimulants and detox factors.

Brussel sprouts, cabbages, cauliflower, broccoli, kale, chard--these belong to the brassica family which contain detoxifying sulfur rich compounds and antioxidants. 

Plants with high levels of pigments or color--carrots, beets, tomatoes, squash, red peppers; these pigments act as antioxidants which also decrease inflammation

Mushrooms contain polysaccharides which can
stimulate the immune system.  Several well known supplements used to boost the immune system such as AHCC and Maitake-D-Fraction are all extracted from mushrooms.

Green leafy vegetables--contain detoxifying plant pigments, rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber, contains trace minerals.

Adequate proteins-I pay a lot of attention to the protein intake of cancer patients, computing for intake to the last gram of protein.   Protein is indispensable to maintaining a healthy immune system and maintaining good body weight and for the repair of cells and tissues that are damaged in the course of treatment such as chemotherapy and radiation.   I mostly prefer plant sources of protein; if not, then mostly from fish and sometimes chicken.  Beef and pork are pro-inflammatory and should be eaten as an exception or only if the patient cannot eat any other source of protein for whatever reason (for example, they just can't tolerate the taste of other proteins because of chemotherapy taste changes).

On top of this, I would recommend good quality water, green tea, herb tea, a low glycemic diet.