How To Eat Well During Breast Cancer Treatment
For those diagnosed with breast cancer, the treatment part can become emotionally and physically draining. During this phase, the diet would be the last thing on their mind. As a side effect of the treatment, some people may experience a loss in appetite while a few others may gain weight due to an increased appetite.
If you are undergoing breast cancer treatment and could relate to this, then it is highly recommended you do not ignore this important aspect of your health. A good diet can help your body heal faster, enhance your energy levels, boost your strength and fight the infection.
In this article, we will discuss certain food choices that you should include in your daily diet and the ones that you need to avoid.
What To Incorporate In Your Daily Diet[1]
1. Fruits And Vegetables
A healthy diet comprising of a variety of fruits, and vegetables will provide your body with the necessary nutrients it needs to keep the strength up. Vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale, leafy vegetables, peppers, radishes, onions, carrots, cabbage are an important source of phytochemicals that enhance the immune system and prevent cell damage.
2. Whole Grains
Include whole grains rather than processed grains as the former have a significant amount of nutrients such as proteins, B vitamins, antioxidants and minerals. These all help reduce inflammation and protect the body. Whole grains are also rich in fibre, which avoids constipation caused by the side effects of certain cancer drugs.
3. Protein
Most breast cancer patients lose weight during chemotherapy, which often makes them feel weaker and sicker. Include pulses, dals, skinless chicken, eggs, peanut butter, nuts and fishes in your diet regimen. These protein-rich foods, which have less fat content, help repair tissue, maintain weight and improve body functions.
4. Healthy Snacks
Instead of munching on deep-fried chips, eat nuts, baby carrots, fruit slices, or fat-free yogurt.
Foods To Avoid:
1. Sugars
Consuming too much of sugar-laden food such as sweets, candies, cakes, chocolates, etc. are associated with weight gain. You should also limit your intake of sugars such as brown sugar, fruit juice concentrate, raw sugar, honey, and corn syrup.
2. Alcohol
Alcoholic drinks including beer, wine, and liquor could interfere with the cancer medication. Hence, it is best to avoid them during breast cancer treatment.
3. Foods High In Fat Content
Red meats as those of lamb, goat, pork, and beef are high in fat content. Dairy products such as whole milk, cream, and butter also contain higher amounts of unhealthy saturated fatty acids. Restrict your red meat intake to once a month, if you want to benefit from the healthiest diet over your course of cancer treatment.
4. Raw Or Uncooked Foods
Cancer treatments can bring down your count of white blood cells, which are the immune-fighting cells of the body. In lack of their adequate count, your body can become vulnerable to infections. Hence, it is essential to avoid raw foods like oysters, sushi, etc. Also, foodstuffs such as meats, poultry and fish should be cooked at a safe temperature before consuming them.
Keep Up With A Healthy Diet
Breast cancer treatment can come with their side effects such as vomiting or diarrhea. Consider drinking at least 2 to 3 litres of water every day. Drinking green tea or ginger tea can relieve nausea symptoms.
You may also plan your meals for the entire week. This will make you stick to a healthy diet plan.
To sum up, the importance of good nutrition during breast cancer cannot be emphasized enough. It helps to keep your immune system strong, enhance strength, maintain body weight and improve your overall wellbeing.
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