Cure Cancer with Foods: Diet for Patients on Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy

Nutritional plays a vital role in management of any form of chronic or acute medical condition. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy can have adverse effects like – fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. Various research studies have proven that these foods and herbs are very effective in management of cancer. Following these dietary guidelines will greatly improve the nutritional status and help combat cancer.

Top Foods to Cure Cancer

Broccoli improtant
to prevent cancer

Carcinoma is a condition characterized by excessive multiplication of abnormal cells in the body. Certain foods have profound effect on limiting and even destroying abnormal malignant cells.

1. Cruciferous foods : Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and Brussels sprouts belong to the cruciferous family. These vegetables offer significant anti-malignancy benefits. Compounds called glucosinolates and sulphoraphane increase the excretion of that form of estrogen that is linked to breast cancer. Research and laboratory examinations have also demonstrated that sulphoraphane extracts can drastically reduce the size, frequency, and numbers of tumors. They exert a very powerful anti-oxidant effect. These compounds also enhance the liver detoxification processes.It is recommended that 1 kg of cruciferous vegetables should be consumed per week, to significantly cut the risk of developing cancer.
2. Tomatoes: Lycopene found in tomatoes are powerful anti-oxidants and anti-cancer agents. Lycopene neutralizes the harmful oxygen free radicals before they can damage cellular structures. Boost your daily intake of tomato, have juices, soups, and salads. The redder the tomato, the greater is the content of lycopene in them. Also, eating a tomato with a source of oil, such as olive oil, increases the absorption enormously.

Herbs for Prevent Cancer
 

Some herbs have beneficial effect on breast cancer prevention and treatment

1. Turmeric:Curcumin, the yellow pigment found in turmeric , is a potent anti-oxidants which plays a crucial role in protecting the healthy cells in the body from free radical damage. Clinical trials have revealed that turmeric helps the body, to destroy mutated malignant cells, so that they can not spread through the body, and cause more harm. Another important study conducted, stated that increasing the consumption of turmeric helps to lower the injurious effects of second hand smoke. Additionally, turmeric has been reported to prevent the formation of new blood vessels which feed the tumor cells. It also aids in the liver’s detoxification process to get rid of cancer causing compounds. It is advocated that, you add, the fresh grated herb to your meals or season the meals with a spoonful of the powder.



Gralic fights toxins
and protects cells

2. Flax seeds: Lignans present in flax seeds offer noteworthy anti-cancer benefits. A study demonstrated, that adding flax seeds to the diet helps reduce the estrogen levels in the body, which in turn reduces the risk of developing breast tumors. Furthermore, experts say, enhancing the dietary intake of flax seeds also makes the cancerous growths shrink. Additionally, flax seeds are a very good source of omega 3 fatty acids, and are strongly recommended. Ground flax seeds can be added to the breakfast cereal, smoothie, or to the flour to make breads, cakes, and muffins.
3. Garlic: Allicin, a compound found in garlic, protects the cells from toxic chemicals and free radicals. They also help stop the growth of the cancer cells once they develop. 2 or more servings of the herb, per week have been proved to be therapeutic. Always remember to peel, chop, and let the garlic sit for about 10 minutes. Immediate cooking of the herb doesn’t allow the potent anti-cancer enzymes to be released.

Cancer Diet for Patients on Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy

Here are some diet tips that can be useful espeically for patients on chemotherapy or radiation therapy,

1. Eat small and frequent meals. Take small bites and chew completely.
2. Stay well hydrated. Drink 2 to 3 liters of water daily. Incorporate fresh vegetable and fruit juices. Without adequate fluids, the body can not detoxify the drugs of chemotherapy. A build up of the drugs, causes added discomfort. What’s more, liquids also remove the metabolic by products of the fight against cancer and dead cell debris. A lemon detox diet is considered beneficial in the eliminating the chemical accumulates in the body.
3. A high protein smoothie is advocated. Patients under chemotherapy/radiotherapy need a serving of high quality protein, especially, if they are showing signs of cachexia (excessive weight loss). Protein promotes recovery, helps maintain muscle mass and protects the gastro-intestinal lining. Importantly, it boosts the immune mechanisms and prevents the development of opportunistic infections. Whey protein is ideal. It has the highest biological value and has immense therapeutic benefits.  
4. Ginger tea is recommended to people who have nausea and vomiting.  
5. Avoid any tea, coffee, alcohol, and aerated beverages. They dehydrate you.