Nutrition plays a crucial role in health and in cancer recovery care. By impacting inflammation, what we eat may be particularly beneficial for persons with a cancer diagnosis. Research has shown that a diet rich in antiinflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean protein, can lower levels of inflammatory markers and promote overall health (Keller et al., 2019; Horne et al., 2021). Foods high in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, combat oxidative stress, while omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and flaxseeds help modulate the inflammatory response (Calder, 2017). In cancer care, managing inflammation is vital. Chronic inflammation can contribute to tumor progression and impact treatment outcomes (Coussens & Werb, 2002). An anti-inflammatory diet may result in improved energy, immune function, and overall wellbeing (Wong et al., 2020). Combined with stress reduction and regular physical activity, healthful eating strengthens the body’s resilience, boosts mental wellbeing, and fosters a more robust immune response (Gómez-Pinilla, 2008). Eating for well-being ultimately supports your path through treatment and recovery.
Why Protein is Important
• Tissue Repair: Cancer treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can cause tissue damage. Protein helps rebuild your tissues.
• Muscle Maintenance: Treatments may lead to muscle loss. Protein helps maintain muscle mass .
On protein
Daily Protein Requirements for Persons with Cancer:
● General Recommendation: Aim for 1.0 to 1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily. This amount can vary based on factors like treatment type, activity level, and overall health .
• Immune Support: Protein is essential for the production of antibodies, helping the immune system fight infections.
● Example: For a 70 kg (154 lbs) patient, the recommended protein intake would be:
• Energy Regulation: Protein helps maintain your energy levels which can help combat cancer-related fatigue.
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Minimum: 70 grams of protein per day (1.0 g/kg)
Maximum: 105 grams of protein per day (1.5 g/kg)
Talk with your clinical team for personalized recommendations based on your specific needs.
To help you with protein choices
Animal-Based Protein Sources:
1.Poultry (Chicken, Turkey):
○1 cup cooked chicken breast: ~43 grams of protein
○Benefits: Lean, easy to digest, and versatile for different recipes.
2.Fish (Salmon, Tuna, Cod):
○3 ounces of cooked salmon: ~22 grams of protein
3.Eggs:
○Benefits: High in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation.
○1 large egg: ~6 grams of protein
○Benefits: Easy to prepare and digest. Can be scrambled, boiled, or added to smoothies.
4.Dairy (Greek Yogurt, Cottage Cheese, Milk):
○1 cup Greek yogurt: ~20 grams of protein
Plant-Based Protein Sources:
○Benefits: Also provides calcium and probiotics, which are good for gut health.
1.Legumes (Lentils, Chickpeas, Black Beans):
○1 cup cooked lentils: ~18 grams of protein
2.Tofu and Tempeh:
○Benefits: High in fiber and iron, supporting digestive and blood health .
○1/2 cup of tofu: ~10 grams of protein
○1/2 cup of tempeh: ~15 grams of protein
○Benefits: Rich in essential amino acids and adaptable to many dishes .
3.Nuts and Nut Butters (Almonds, Peanut Butter):
○1 ounce of almonds: ~6 grams of protein
○2 tablespoons of peanut butter: ~8 grams of protein
4.Quinoa:
○Benefits: Good source of healthy fats and can be added to snacks or smoothies .
○1 cup cooked quinoa: ~8 grams of protein
○Benefits: A complete protein source, providing all nine essential amino acids .
On Fruits and Vegetables
Eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables gives you the antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your immune system and overall recovery.
Benefits of Fruits and Vegetables:
1. Rich in Antioxidants:
○ Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are often elevated during cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation.
○ Examples of antioxidant-rich foods: berries (blueberries, strawberries), citrus fruits (oranges, lemons), and dark leafy greens (spinach, kale).
2. Essential Vitamins and Minerals:
○ Vitamin C: Boosts the immune system and aids in the healing process. Found in bell peppers, oranges, and broccoli.
○ Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene): Promotes healthy skin and immune function. Found in carrots, sweet potatoes, and squash.
3. Aid in Digestion:
○ Folate (Vitamin B9): Supports DNA repair and synthesis, which is crucial during treatment. Found in spinach, asparagus, and avocados .
○ Fiber from fruits and vegetables can help maintain regular bowel movements and reduce the risk of constipation, which can be a side effect of some treatments. Whole fruits like apples (with skin), pears, and vegetables like carrots and broccoli are great sources of fiber .
4. Supports Hydration:
○ Many fruits and vegetables have high water content, which helps with hydration, especially when patients experience side effects like vomiting or diarrhea. Watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges are particularly hydrating choices .
○ Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, berries help fight inflammation and protect cells from damage. They are also easy to incorporate into smoothies, snacks, or cereals.
4. Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Lemons, Grapefruits):
○ High in vitamin C, these fruits help support immune function and wound healing. Enjoy them as snacks or add fresh lemon juice to meals for flavor .
5. Carrots and Sweet Potatoes:
2. Dark Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Swiss Chard):
○ These greens are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate. Add them to salads, smoothies, or soups for an easy nutrient boost .
○ Contain compounds like sulforaphane, which may have cancer-fighting properties. These vegetables are also high in fiber and help support digestion .
○ Rich in beta-carotene, these root vegetables are great for promoting healthy skin and immune function. Roast or steam them for a side dish or add to soups .
6. Tomatoes:
○ Packed with lycopene, an antioxidant linked to cancer prevention, tomatoes can be added to salads, sandwiches, or cooked into sauces .
How to Incorporate More Fruits and Vegetables
• Smoothies: Blend berries, bananas, and spinach into smoothies for an easy-to-digest, nutrient-packed meal or snack.
• Snacks: Keep washed and cut vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, celery) in the fridge for convenient snacking. Pair them with hummus or Greek yogurt for added protein
• Add to Meals: Incorporate a variety of vegetables into meals like stir-fries, soups, and casseroles. Add fruit to oatmeal, salads, or yogurt .
• Roasting and Steaming: These methods enhance flavor and maintain the nutritional integrity of vegetables. Season with herbs and olive oil for added benefits .
When purchasing groceries
● Refrigerate or freeze groceries right after shopping
● When buying raw meat, poultry, or seafood, do not let drippings contaminate other food . Store raw meat, poultry or seafood on the bottom of the fridge or freezer
● Check the expiration dates on your groceries. Do not buy anything that is outdated
● Make sure cans are not dented and safety meals are intact
● Buy only pasteurized milk and dairy products (such as cheese and yogurt)
● Check for mold on fruits and vegetables
● Avoid eating eggs that are cracked or damaged during storage
● Remember to read labels!
Food Safety Considerations
● To prevent food-borne illness
● Eating contaminated foods can cause food-borne illness including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and headache
○ Thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables with cold water
○ Wash all bagged salad even if it states “thoroughly washed” or “ready to eat” on the bag
○ Avoid all raw and undercooked foods
○ Avoid foods made with raw eggs such as Caesar salad dressing and Hollandaise Sauce. Raw eggs can carry salmonella, which causes food borne illness. Avoid over easy, soft boiled, or poached eggs
○ Never eat or taste raw dough cookies, cakes, etc.
○ Avoid fermented foods
○ Avoid cheeses with molds (blue, stilton, roquefort, gorgonzola) and soft cheeses (brie, feta)
Closing thoughts
We hope this nutrition guide has helped you explore some common questions to empower you on your path to better health.
May this knowledge support your health and vitality.
We wish you all the best as you move towards a healthier you!
