Mesothelioma Cancer and Nutrition

According to the National Cancer Institute, at least 35 percent of all cancer cases are related to poor nutrition. Though mesothelioma is not a cancer that is related to poor nutrition, improving nutritional intake can help mesothelioma cancer patients fight the progressive disease.

It is foundationally important to eat a balanced and healthy diet to help prevent cancer and other health problems. Although there is some debate as to exactly which foods are best in certain quantities, the basic guidelines for a healthy diet are relatively simple; avoid all junk foods, eat in moderation, and pay attention to the effects of various foods on the body.

According to national standards, there is no one "set" pyramid that everyone can look to as a food guide. The foods you should be eating depend on your age, weight, height, health and genetics. It is important to eat the most nutrient-dense calories possible, rather than ingesting calories from fast food, sweets or other processed foods that clog the lymphatic system and impede metabolism and immune system function. It is important eat a diet heavy in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, supplementing with dairy and healthy carbohydrates (such as whole wheat pastas and potatoes).

In many cases, no matter how well one eats, cancer may still develop for a multitude of reasons. But even if cancer develops in a healthy person, continuing to eat a healthy diet is crucial to the healing process. Vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, lipids (fats) and proteins all play major roles in a healthy human body. Without the right balance of nutrients the body cannot effectively fight cancer. In addition, malnutrition causes the body to be susceptible to infection. Many cancer patients do not pass away from the cancer itself, but rather a medical condition stemming from the body’s weakened condition.

If you have been diagnosed with cancer, it is important to discuss a nutritional plan with your doctor. This can be as important as radiation, chemotherapy or other forms of cancer treatment. With the right nutritional plan, chances of survival can greatly improve. For information about nutrition during cancer treatment, please see Proper Nutrition during Chemotherapy and Proper Nutrition during Radiation.

In addition to improving chances of survival, proper dietary care can help relieve the painful or uncomfortable symptoms of cancer. Naturally, this depends on the type and stage of cancer, but improving symptoms can improve quality of life—even if the cancer is severe.

One of the most common side effects of cancer and cancer treatment is nausea. There are a number of dietary changes you can make to help this problem. Dry grain products like crackers and toast can help calm an upset stomach. Bland foods will also help with nausea, as well as acid reflux problems.

Another common characteristic found in cancer patients is low white blood cell count, which increases the chance of contracting an infection. To avoid this side effect, a number of changes can be made in the foods you ingest. It is most important to avoid bacteria, which is common in foods that are damaged or not prepared well. Avoid buffets when eating out, wash your hands before preparing meals, avoid raw meats and fish (like sushi), and throw away any foods that are bruised or damaged.

For many people, avoiding certain foods cannot decrease the chance of developing cancer. Cancer is a complex medical condition, with many factors playing various roles in development and treatment. However, most patients will undoubtedly benefit from a better diet in a number of ways. In addition to eating a balanced diet, use the following tips to help strengthen the body’s ability to function well and fight disease:

• Avoid alcohol in excess amounts.
• Monitor weight carefully, not only being sure to stay trim, but also being sure to avoid becoming too thin.
• Learn about safe food preparation techniques.
• Cut the "bad" fats from your diet, opting instead for "good" fats, such as olive oil.
• Choose fruits and vegetables daily (these food groups should represent the bulk of your diet, approximately 50 percent).
• Avoid processed foods, like prepackaged meals.
• Make healthy choices when eating out, opting for low-carb or vegetable-based meals when possible.
• Monitor the types of fish you eat, choosing species low in mercury.
• Buy products that are organic.
• Do not eat fast food.
• Cut tobacco products out of your life.
• Take a multi-vitamin every day.
• Include adequate amounts of fiber in your diet.

Be sure to talk to your doctor to learn about more ways to decrease the risk of developing cancer. Positive changes in your diet and other areas of your life (such as your physical activity) will help prevent cancer. If you do develop this medical condition, at the very least, these changes will allow you to fight the cancer more readily.

Doctor Match Program

One of the most important factors in improving a mesothelioma patient's life expectancy is their selection of doctor and treatment facility. Asbestos.com's Doctor Match Program is now helping patients get matched with top mesothelioma specialists around the country. If you wish to take advantage of this free service please call us at (800) 549-0544 or click here visit our doctor match page.

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