When people find out they have cancer, one of the first things they often ask is what foods they should or shouldn't eat. Our team of nutrition experts is here to help by answering the most common questions about cancer and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nutrition
What Foods Should Patients Avoid During Cancer Treatment?
Are there certain foods or vitamins cancer patients should avoid? Dana-Farber nutritionist discusses the best foods and diet for cancer patients.
When undergoing treatment, it's important to avoid foods that don't agree with you. Everyone's tolerance varies based on their specific therapies, food sensitivities, and gastrointestinal history. If a food causes you distress — don’t force yourself to eat it.
Key Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
Alcohol is carcinogenic, meaning it can cause cancer. There's no safe amount of alcohol consumption when it comes to cancer risk. In 2020, alcohol was linked to an estimated 741,399 new cancer cases worldwide. It has been associated with many types of cancers including oral, esophagus, liver, colorectal, and breast.
Processed Meats and Red Meat
Processed Meats: These include meats that have been transformed through salting, curing, fermentation, or smoking, such as deli meats. In 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) classified processed meats as carcinogenic to humans. They have been linked to increased risks of breast, colon, rectal, and lung cancers.
Red Meat: This includes unprocessed meats like beef, veal, pork, lamb, mutton, and goat. Consuming more than 12-18 ounces of red meat per week has been associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer.
Sugar-Sweetened Beverages
It’s best to limit beverages that have been sweetened with sugar such as sodas, fruit drinks, sports drinks, energy drinks, sweetened waters, and coffee and tea beverages with added sugars. These drinks can lead to weight gain, and obesity can increase the risk of developing 12 common cancers. Sugar-sweetened beverages also lack essential nutrients. Consider replacing them with naturally flavored drinks, or try infusing tea or water with fruits, lemon wedges, or cucumber slices.
In Summary
Remember, your comfort and well-being are important. Avoid foods that cause you discomfort and focus on nourishing your body with what feels right for you.
References
- Gapstur SM, Bouvard V, Nethan ST, et al. The IARC Perspective on Alcohol Reduction or Cessation and Cancer Risk. N Engl J Med. 2023;389(26):2486-2494. doi:10.1056/NEJMsr2306723
- Farvid MS, Sidahmed E, Spence ND, Mante Angua K, Rosner BA, Barnett JB. Consumption of red meat and processed meat and cancer incidence: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies. Eur J Epidemiol. 2021;36(9):937-951. doi:10.1007/s10654-021-00741-9
- https://www.aicr.org/cancer-prevention/recommendations/limit-consumption-of-red-and-processed-meat/#what-the-science-says
- https://www.aicr.org/cancer-prevention/recommendations/limit-consumption-of-sugar-sweetened-drinks/#overview-top-tips
It is important to maintain your weight during treatment. On days when you're not feeling well, focus on eating whatever you can tolerate. Remember, not every day has to be perfect when it comes to eating.
On days when you're feeling better, optimal nutrition may help you tolerate your next treatment better and recover more quickly. While the following tips offer general cancer nutrition advice, it is important to speak with a registered dietitian for individualized recommendations.
General Nutrition Tips
Eat a Variety of Healthful Foods
Eat many different healthy foods with an emphasis on plant-based options. Plant-based foods are rich in antioxidant and phytonutrients, which combat the harmful effects of oxidation and inflammation associated with cancer. Fruits and vegetables – both fresh and frozen – are an important part of a plant-based diet.
Choose Quality Protein Sources
Maintaining lean body mass is important during cancer treatment, and consuming adequate amounts of dietary protein can help. Healthy protein options include fish, chicken, turkey, beans, tofu, and low-fat dairy foods such as yogurt and milk. Limit red meat to 12 ounces per week and avoid processed meats due to their cancer risk.
Include Healthy Fats
Unsaturated fats are heart-healthy and can help boost your immune system. These healthy fats can be found in plant-based options like olive and avocado oils, nuts, and nut butter. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids are an essential unsaturated fat found in salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as plant-based options like flaxseeds, walnuts, chia seeds, and soybeans. Limit saturated fats that can be found in meats and full-fat dairy products.
Prioritize Whole-Grain Foods
Whole grains are higher in fiber and nutrients compared to refined grains and processed foods. Whole-grain versions of bread, cereal, pasta, and flour are available at most grocery stores. Other examples of whole-grain foods include brown rice, cracked wheat, oatmeal, and quinoa.
Stay Hydrated
Adequate hydration is essential for carrying nutrients throughout your body, removing waste products, regulating bowel function, and fighting fatigue. Most people need to drink between four to six cups of plain water per day. A dietitian can provide individual guidelines for you to stay hydrated.
In Summary
As mentioned earlier, it is important to maintain your weight while you are undergoing treatment. Therefore, when you are feeling good, focus on healthy foods. But, when you are not feeling well, focus on consuming calories and protein that you can tolerate and are soothing.
When we eat either sugar, cake, a cookie (a simple carbohydrate), or complex carbohydrates, our body breaks them down into glucose, which eventually enters our bloodstream. Complex carbohydrates are found in healthy, whole foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and dairy. Simple carbohydrates come from foods made with refined grains and added sugars, such as those in white bread, pasta, sweets, and sodas.
Glucose and Cancer Cells
All cells, including cancer cells, use glucose as their primary fuel source. They process glucose the same way, regardless of whether it comes from simple or complex carbohydrates. You can't starve cancer cells of glucose by cutting out simple carbs or complex carbs from your diet without also depriving your healthy cells of essential fuel. If you remove these sources, your body will use glucose stored in the liver and muscles or break down muscle and fat to produce glucose for energy.
Sugar and Cancer Risk
While no studies have shown that sugar directly causes cancer, there is an indirect link between consuming high-sugar foods and gaining excess body fat. Research from the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) indicates that being overweight or obese can increase the risk of 12 different types of cancer.
The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugars to less than 25 grams per day for women and 36 grams per day for men. You can check the Nutrition Facts label on foods to determine their added sugar content.
Balanced Nutrition
Carbohydrates are an important source of calories for your body. Eating too few calories during treatment can be more harmful than consuming some refined carbohydrates. A healthier approach is to focus on a varied diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean sources of protein.
In Summary
Focus your diet on complex carbohydrates and minimize the simple carbohydrates to ensure you are getting the maximum nutrition from your food. Don’t focus on the single component of a food such as sugar or glucose. Instead, focus on the nutritional value of the whole food.
References:
- https://www.aicr.org/resources/blog/added-sugars-added-risk-find-hidden-risks-and-quick-wins/
Deciding whether to buy organic or conventional foods is a personal choice, and for many, it's also a financial one. Organic foods are grown without conventional pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, or bioengineering, using natural sources instead. However, there's no conclusive evidence linking conventional farming practices to an increased risk of cancer or other diseases in humans. Additionally, research hasn't definitively shown that the nutritional value of food changes based on farming practices.
Organic products tend to be more expensive than those that are conventionally grown. If you want to incorporate more organic produce into your diet but are concerned about cost, consider starting with items that typically have higher pesticide residues. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) publishes a "Dirty Dozen" list, which can help you prioritize which foods to buy organic.
Regardless of whether you choose organic or conventional produce, it's important to wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water. Washing helps remove dirt, germs, and some chemical residues, and may lower the amount of pesticide residue — although it doesn't eliminate all traces.
Ultimately, the best nutritional practice for reducing cancer risk is to consume a diet rich in a variety of fruits and vegetables, whether they are organically or conventionally grown.
References:
- https://www.consumerreports.org/health/food-contaminants/fruits-and-vegetables-loaded-with-pesticides-a2508510840/
- https://www.consumerreports.org/health/food-contaminants/produce-without-pesticides-a5260230325/
While supplements can be helpful for people with specific nutrient deficiencies, most of us can get the nutrients we need from our diet alone. Here are a few reasons why we generally don't recommend taking supplements during cancer treatment:
Interactions
Drug-Nutrient Interactions
Many chemotherapy drugs use the same pathways as vitamins and minerals. So when there is a high, concentrated dose (such as that found in a supplement), it can interfere with the absorption of the therapeutic drug. This could inhibit the effectiveness of chemotherapy.
Antioxidants and Radiation
Radiation therapy works by causing intentional cell damage through oxidation. High-dose antioxidant supplements, like vitamin C or E, can neutralize this oxidation and potentially interfere with the effectiveness of radiation therapy.
Probiotics and Immunotherapy
Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha support gut health by providing additional, friendly microbes to the body. However, some studies suggest that probiotics in supplement form may make immunotherapy less responsive. Additionally, certain probiotic supplements should be avoided by patients with weakened immune systems.
Regulation
Unfortunately, supplements are not regulated by the FDA, meaning that the dose and ingredients may not always be accurate. Ingredients could be present in higher or lower concentrations than listed on the label.
If You Choose to Take Supplements
If you decide to take a supplement while undergoing treatment, make sure to notify your healthcare team and get their approval. Choose well-labeled options tested by independent labs like USP or NSF for quality, purity, and concentration.
Better Options for Optimal Nutrition
Eating a varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources is the best way to get enough vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytonutrients (plant-based anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds). That’s why this is approach is recommended over taking supplements.
References
- Heaney ML, Gardner JR, Karasavvas N, et al. Vitamin C antagonizes the cytotoxic effects of antineoplastic drugs. Cancer Res. Oct 1 2008;68(19):8031-8038.
- Cohen SH, Gerding DN, Johnson S, et al. Clinical practice guidelines for Clostridium difficile infection in adults: 2010 update by the society for healthcare epidemiology of America (SHEA) and the infectious diseases society of America (IDSA). Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. May 2010;31(5):431-455.
- Khazaei S, Nilsson L, Adrian G, et al. Impact of combining vitamin C with radiation therapy in human breast cancer: does it matter? Oncotarget. 2022;13:439-453. Published 2022 Feb 22. doi:10.18632/oncotarget.28204
There's no need to avoid soy as a risk factor for developing breast cancer or after a breast cancer diagnosis. Soy is commonly found in soy milk, edamame (soybeans), and tofu (fermented soybeans).
Early animal studies suggested that increased levels of certain natural compounds called isoflavones could promote the growth of ER+ breast cancer cells. However, further research revealed that rats and mice metabolize these compounds differently than humans. And in humans, the binding of these chemicals may actually help suppress tumors.
Continued research hasn’t shown harmful effects from eating soy, and those who eat moderate amounts may have better overall survival rates compared to those who don't. Eating a “moderate” amount of soy means having one to two servings a day from whole foods.
In summary, adding moderate amounts of soy into your diet is not linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
References
- https://www.aicr.org/resources/blog/soy-and-cancer-myths-and-misconceptions/
- Oncology Nutrition for Clinical Practice
- Boutas, I., Kontogeorgi, A., Dimitrakakis, C., & Kalantaridou, S. N. (2022). Soy Isoflavones and Breast Cancer Risk: A Meta-analysis. In vivo (Athens, Greece), 36(2), 556–562. https://doi.org/10.21873/invivo.12737
The community of bacteria in our gastrointestinal tract is called the “gut microbiome.” These bacteria help keep our gut healthy by maintaining the proper environment and preventing the growth of “bad bacteria.” However, this environment can be disturbed by infections, illnesses, a diet low in fiber and high in sugar and processed foods, or prolonged use of antibiotics and other bacteria-destroying medications. Such imbalances can interfere with the normal interactions in our gut.
Probiotics: Food vs. Pills
There is no strong scientific evidence on the effectiveness of probiotic pills or capsules. Further research is needed to determine:
- The amount and strains of probiotics that are effective for different conditions
- The viability of bacteria in packaging, shelf life, and survival during digestion
- The quality of the product when purchased
Using probiotic supplements during chemotherapy or immunotherapy remains controversial. Therefore, obtaining probiotics through your food is recommended.
Getting Probiotics and Prebiotics from Food
Probiotics are found in many fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. Prebiotics, which feed the probiotics, are found in foods rich in beneficial fibers like almonds, whole-grain products, oats, flaxseeds, bananas, onions, artichokes, beans, and asparagus. Getting a wide variety of prebiotics from food sources will help fuel the good probiotics in your gut.
In Summary
Incorporating probiotics into your diet through food choices rather than supplements can help you maintain a healthy gut microbiome, supporting your overall health and well-being.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines processed foods as those that have been changed from their natural state through methods like washing, milling, cutting, chopping, or heating. To help understand the various risks associated with different levels of processing, the NOVA classification system divides foods into four main groups:
NOVA1: "Unprocessed or minimally processed foods," like fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats. Basically, this includes the edible parts of plants or animals that are taken straight from nature.
NOVA2: "Culinary ingredients," such as salt, oil, sugar, or starch, which are produced from NOVA1 foods.
NOVA3: "Processed foods," like freshly baked bread, canned vegetables, or cured meats, which are made by combining NOVA1 and NOVA2 foods.
NOVA4: "Ultra-processed foods," which are ready-to-eat, industrially formulated products made mostly from substances derived from foods and additives, with little intact NOVA1 foods.
Processed meats are meats that have been preserved by smoking, salting, curing or adding chemical preservatives. These include ham, sausage, hot dogs, pepperoni, beef jerky, bacon, pastrami, deli meats, and smoked salmon.
Both ultra-processed foods and processed meats are linked to a higher overall cancer risk. While there is no way to eliminate cancer risk entirely, the American Institute of Cancer Research (AICR) recommends avoiding these two food groups. Instead, focus on a varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean sources of protein.
References
[1] Monteiro CA, Cannon G, Levy R, Moubarac JC, Jaime P, Martins AP, et al. NOVA. The star shines bright: World Nutrition, 2016;7:28–38.
[2] https://www.aicr.org/resources/blog/processed-meat-and-cancer/
According to the American Institute of Cancer Research (AICR), alcohol is the third leading modifiable factor that increases cancer risk, after cigarette smoking and excess body weight. Research from AICR’s Continuous Update Project has found that having even less than one drink per day – no matter which type of alcohol – can increase the risk of several common cancers, including breast, head and neck, and esophageal cancers. Cutting back on alcohol consumption can lower your risk.
Alcohol is not recommended during or after cancer treatment. Alcohol can interfere with your treatment and affect the liver’s ability to function properly. For survivors, continuing to drink might increase the risk of recurrence.
According to the AICR, if you want to take a proactive approach to cancer prevention, it’s best not to drink alcohol.
References
[1] https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2023/cancer-survivors-alcohol-drinking-common#:~:text=For%20people%20being%20treated%20for,chances%20of%20their%20cancer%20returning
[2] AICR: https://www.aicr.org/cancer-prevention/food-facts/alcohol/
[3] Gapstur SM, Bouvard V, Nethan ST, et al. The IARC Perspective on Alcohol Reduction or Cessation and Cancer Risk. N Engl J Med. 2023;389(26):2486-2494. doi:10.1056/NEJMsr2306723
[4] Anderson BO, Berdzuli N, Ilbawi A, et al. Health and cancer risks associated with low levels of alcohol consumption. Lancet Public Health. 2023;8(1):e6-e7. doi:10.1016/S2468-2667(22)00317-6
[5] https://www.heart.org/en/news/2023/07/31/even-just-1-alcoholic-drink-a-day-may-increase-blood-pressure
[6] https://theheartfoundation.org/2022/10/20/alcohol-heart-health/
Absolutely! In the past, due to a lack of data, cancer patients were often advised to rest and conserve energy. However, there's growing evidence showing the benefits of staying active during and after treatment, as much as you're able. Physical activity is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and can boost your quality of life and energy levels. Some benefits of exercise include increasing muscle mass and bone strength, reducing fatigue, improving appetite, and even lowering the risk of certain cancers.
The American Cancer Society guidelines encourage patients to return to activities of daily activities as they feel during treatment. If your medical team gives the green light, you can also engage in physical activity. It’s important to talk with your doctor to ensure it's safe for you to exercise. Once cleared, start slowly and gradually increase your activity level. Try to incorporate a mix of exercises like walking, using light weights or resistance bands, and stretching to balance cardio, strength, and flexibility. Keep exercise simple and fun to maintain muscle strength and help you continue doing the things you love to do.
References
[1] https://www.aicr.org/news/exercise-helps-cancer-patients-and-oncology-professionals-are-urged-to-take-action/
[2] https://www.cancer.org/cancer/survivorship/be-healthy-after-treatment/physical-activity-and-the-cancer-patient.html
Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens bones, making them less dense and more fragile. Cancer survivors may face an increased risk of developing osteoporosis as a side effect of cancer therapy. While peak bone density is typically reached in your early twenties, there are plenty of foods and exercises that can help maintain and promote bone health.
Key nutrients for bone health include calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and phosphorus. The National Institutes of Health's Nutrient Recommendations and Databases can help you figure out your Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for each nutrient, including the following:
- Calcium: This makes up two-thirds of your bones. You can get calcium from dairy products, soymilk, tofu, kale, broccoli, fortified orange juice, and supplements.
- Vitamin D: It helps your body absorb calcium. Sources include fish oil, salmon, milk, yogurt, soymilk, tuna, fortified cereals, and orange juice. While sunlight is a natural source, it can be tough to get enough in certain regions like New England. Since it may be difficult to get recommended amounts of Vitamin D from foods alone, consider taking a Vitamin D supplement.
- Magnesium: This nutrient assists in hormone and calcium balance for building bones. Find it in green leafy vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains.
- Phosphorus: It works with calcium to strengthen bones. Sources include dairy products, fish, eggs, legumes, grains, meat, and nuts.
- Other nutrients: Vitamin K, zinc, and omega-3s also support healthy bones and can be found in many of the foods listed above.
While nutrition is important for bone health, exercise is equally important. It helps keep bones strong and improves muscle strength, balance, and mobility. Try incorporating weight-bearing exercises like running, walking, tennis, or using an elliptical. Muscle-strengthening activities like weightlifting, resistance bands, and Pilates can also help build and protect strong bones.
References
[1] https://www.aicr.org/resources/blog/from-the-field-working-with-survivors-for-stronger-bones/
[2] https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Calcium-HealthProfessional/#en1
[3] https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/vitamin-d/#:~:text=RDA%3A%20The%20Recommended%20Dietary%20Allowance,IU%20(20%20mcg)%20daily.
[4] https://ods.od.nih.gov/HealthInformation/nutrientrecommendations.aspx
There are many reasons people might avoid dairy, such as lactose intolerance, bloating, environmental concerns, animal welfare, and avoiding saturated fats for heart health. While high amounts of saturated fats can be inflammatory, consuming dairy as part of a balanced diet is safe and provides good nutrition.
Dairy and cancer research
Research on cow’s milk and hormone-related cancers has resulted in conflicting information and confusion. Some studies suggest a link between high cow’s milk intake and an increased risk of prostate, breast, and ovarian cancer, while others find no association. Another study even found a decreased risk of ovarian cancer with high intake of low-fat cow’s milk. Like many nutritional topics in research – the science is not yet definitive.
Role of dairy in a balanced diet
Overall, dairy can be an important part of a balanced diet, offering protein and essential nutrients from often easily consumed liquids. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend adults consume 3 servings of dairy daily to meet calcium and vitamin D needs. A serving is equivalent to 1 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of evaporated milk, 1 cup of yogurt, 1/2 cup of cottage cheese, 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese, or 1/3 cup of shredded cheese. If you don't tolerate dairy, 1 cup of calcium-fortified soy milk is a good alternative.
Summary
Incorporating dairy or its alternatives into your diet can help you meet your nutritional needs while supporting overall health.
References
[1] Arafat HM, Omar J, Shafii N, et al. The association between breast cancer and consumption of dairy products: a systematic review. Ann Med. 2023;55(1):2198256. doi:10.1080/07853890.2023.2198256
[2] https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/dairy
The theory behind the keto diet is that healthy cells are able to switch from using glucose (from carbohydrates ) to ketones (from fats) for energy, while cancer cells may not be able to make this switch as easily. However, the data on the keto diet's impact on cancer is still inconclusive.
Risks of the ketogenic diet
A high-fat, high-protein, low-carb diet may lack essential vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and fiber – all of which are important for a healthy body and recovery.
If you don't consume enough calories and protein, you might experience weight loss, leading to a loss of lean body mass, which can affect how you feel and tolerate treatment.
Although research is ongoing, there is currently not enough evidence to recommend a keto or low-carb diet for improving quality of life, reducing treatment toxicity, or controlling cancer, according to ASCO guidelines.
Summary
Before making any dietary changes, it's important to consult with your healthcare team to ensure you're making the best choices for your health.
References
[1] Weber DD, Aminzadeh-Gohari S, Tulipan J, Catalano L, Feichtinger RG, Kofler B. Ketogenic diet in the treatment of cancer - Where do we stand?. Mol Metab. 2020;33:102-121. doi:10.1016/j.molmet.2019.06.026
[2] https://www.aicr.org/resources/blog/the-ketogenic-diet-and-cancer-treatment-what-patients-should-know/
[3] Cohen CW, Fontaine KR, Arend RC, Soleymani T, Gower BA. Favorable Effects of a Ketogenic Diet on Physical Function, Perceived Energy, and Food Cravings in Women with Ovarian or Endometrial Cancer: A Randomized, Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2018;10(9):1187. Published 2018 Aug 30. doi:10.3390/nu10091187
Inflammation is the body's natural defense mechanism against injury or infection. It can be acute, meaning it lasts a short time, or chronic, meaning it persists over a longer period and leads to persistent activation of the immune system.
Foods that may promote inflammation
While no individual foods will cause inflammation, certain dietary patterns can promote it. Diets high in saturated fats and refined sugars may contribute to inflammation. Examples include:
- Red and processed meats
- Highly processed foods
- Deep-fried foods
- Sugar-sweetened beverages (sodas, sweet tea, some sports drinks)
- Foods high in added sugars (candy, jelly, commercial baked goods)
Foods that may help reduce inflammation
Similarly, there is no food that will reverse inflammation, but there are certain eating patterns that can help minimize it. To reduce inflammation, incorporate these foods into your meals:
- A variety of colorful fruits and vegetables rich in phytonutrients and natural antioxidants
- Whole grains
- Legumes (beans, lentils)
- Omega-3 fatty acids (nuts, seeds, plant oils, salmon, mackerel)
- Fermented, gut-healthy foods such as kombucha, kimchi, yogurt, and kefir
Lifestyle factors
Sleep, physical activity and stress management can help reduce chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation contributes to all stages of cancer development. An anti-inflammatory diet aligns with the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) recommendations and has a strong potential to reduce cancer risk.
References
[1] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/anti-inflammatory-diet
[2] https://cancerdietitian.com/2024/03/anti-inflammatory-eating-webinar-recording.html
[3] https://www.aicr.org/resources/blog/can-an-anti-inflammatory-diet-reduce-cancer-risk/
During treatment, the white blood cell counts (WBC) will often drop, but it usually returns to normal before the next round of treatment. While no specific foods are proven to increase WBCs, focusing on food safety and adequate protein intake is important.
Food safety tips
When your WBC count is low, you're more susceptible to infections, including those from food. Here are some important food safety tips to follow:
- Wash your hands before and during food preparation, scrubbing for at least 15 seconds with warm, soapy water.
- Cook foods to the proper temperature.
- Rinse all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water.
- Keep food preparation surfaces clean.
- Avoid moldy or expired foods, undercooked or raw meats (like sushi or tartare), and unpasteurized dairy products.
Importance of protein
Protein is crucial because it provides amino acids, which are the building blocks needed for WBC formation. Complete proteins are found in eggs, poultry, fish, tofu, tempeh, and dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cottage cheese. Speaking with one of our registered dietitians can help you get personalized protein recommendations, along with guidance on further supplementation, if necessary.
Summary
By following these tips, you can help support your immune system during treatment.
References
[1] https://www.oncologynutrition.org/erfc/eating-well-when-unwell/white-blood-count-diet#:~:text=Good%20quality%20protein%20is%20important,to%20make%20the%20new%20WBCs.
There's no specific "healthy liver" diet or foods proven to improve liver health. However, you can support your liver by focusing on overall nutrition.
Liver function during treatment
The liver’s function is to filter blood and detoxify the body, breaking down substances like alcohol, drugs, and other toxins. During cancer treatment, it processes and eliminates chemotherapy and other drug toxins. Therefore, the best strategy for nutrition during treatment is to avoid highly processed foods and alcohol.
Nutrition tips for liver health
During treatment, focus on eating balanced, healthy foods and staying hydrated. Choose a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables for their antioxidants and phytonutrients. Avoid taking vitamin, mineral, or herbal supplements unless approved by your doctor. Supplements aren't regulated by the FDA and can harm the liver or cause injury if taken in excess. Always inform your medical team about any supplements you're taking to avoid potential interactions and adverse effects.
Summary
By following these guidelines, you can help support your liver during treatment.
References
[1] https://www.casi.org/cruciferous-vegetables-to-promote-liver-detox
[2] Vell MS, Creasy KT, Scorletti E, et al. Omega-3 intake is associated with liver disease protection. Front Public Health. 2023;11:1192099. Published 2023 Jul 19. doi:10.3389/fpubh.2023.1192099
[3] Navarro VJ, Khan I, Björnsson E, Seeff LB, Serrano J, Hoofnagle JH. Liver injury from herbal and dietary supplements. Hepatology. 2017;65(1):363-373. doi:10.1002/hep.28813
[4] https://www.aicr.org/news/a-study-suggests-milk-increases-the-risk-of-breast-cancer-but-aicr-experts-say-not-so-fast/
[5] https://www.aicr.org/cancer-prevention/food-facts/processed-meat/
[6] https://www.aicr.org/research/the-continuous-update-project/prostate-cancer/
The alkaline diet focuses on eating foods that supposedly create a more alkaline environment in the body and avoiding those that create acidity. The pH scale measures acidity and alkalinity from 0 to 14, with alkaline being above 7 and acidic below 7. Our body has various mechanisms that ensure our blood pH remains between 7.35 and 7.45.
The theory behind the alkaline diet
The alkaline diet is based on research suggesting that cancerous tumors grow in more acidic cell environments, so eating more alkaline foods might make the body less hospitable to cancer. While this may be true for isolated cell cultures, it doesn't translate to the human body. Many organs in our body help manage the pH of blood, with the kidneys being the major regulator. Studies show that dietary changes may lead to changes in the pH of saliva or urine but do not impact the pH of the blood.
Should you follow the alkaline diet?
The alkaline diet encourages eating more vegetables and fruits while limiting meat, which aligns with the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) guidelines. However, it also restricts whole grains, fish, dairy, and healthy fats, which are important for balanced nutrition.
Summary
Bottom line: there isn't enough high-quality evidence to support the idea that diet can significantly influence the pH of the blood. The body maintains its pH levels within a tight range, and food choices don't affect blood pH as much as some claim. A nutrient-rich diet is the best nutritional strategy for overall health.
References
[1] https://www.aicr.org/resources/blog/breaking-down-the-association-between-alkaline-diet-and-cancer/
[2] Park YM, Steck SE, Fung TT, et al. Higher diet-dependent acid load is associated with risk of breast cancer: Findings from the sister study. Int J Cancer. 2019;144(8):1834-1843. doi:10.1002/ijc.31889
[3] Wu T, Seaver P, Lemus H, Hollenbach K, Wang E, Pierce JP. Associations between Dietary Acid Load and Biomarkers of Inflammation and Hyperglycemia in Breast Cancer Survivors. Nutrients. 2019;11(8):1913. Published 2019 Aug 15. doi:10.3390/nu11081913
[4] Wu T, Seaver P, Lemus H, Hollenbach K, Wang E, Pierce JP. Associations between Dietary Acid Load and Biomarkers of Inflammation and Hyperglycemia in Breast Cancer Survivors. Nutrients. 2019;11(8):1913. Published 2019 Aug 15. doi:10.3390/nu11081913