Know the Fruits & Veggies that will Help You in Cancer Treatment

~ Authored by Shweta Mahadik, Dietitian, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan ~

Your diet plays a significant role in reducing the risk of developing cancer. In the same way, filling up on healthy food is essential if you are being treated for or recovering from cancer. Here are some fruits containing health-promoting compounds that may slow down Cancer growth and reduce certain side effects of treatment.

Apples – Apples contain various phytochemicals, including Quercetin, Catechin, Phloridzine, and Chlorogenic acid, which are all major antioxidants. Apples are a good source of dietary fibre and polyphenol compounds that work with gut microbes to boost Cancer-fighting defenses. Many studies have found that consumption of Apples lowers the risk of Estrogen Receptor, i.e., the negative form of Breast Cancer

Oranges - Some citrus fruits, particularly Tangerines and Oranges, have anti-angiogenic and anti-tumor activity. It is noted that individuals who eat citrus fruit daily have a lower risk of certain cancers, including Lung Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, and Stomach Cancer. Two flavonoids abundant in citrus fruits are Nobiletin and Ascorbic Acid (vitamin C), which have been shown to inhibit the growth and spread of tumours

Cranberry - Cranberry contains Ursolic acid and Proanthocyanidins. Regular consumption of Cranberry extract inhibits the growth of Breast Cancer, Colon Cancer, Cervical Cancer, Glioblastoma, Leukaemia, Lung Cancer, Melanoma, oral cavity Cancer, Prostate Cancer, and Renal Cancer cell lines

Berries – Berries are a rich source of many nutrients such as vitamin A, C, E, Carotenoids, Folate, Calcium, Selenium, simple and complex phenols & phytosterols. Anthocyanosides and Resveratrol are one of the most active antioxidants found in Blueberries. These antioxidants have anti-Cancer effects, including radical scavenging activity, activation of phase II detoxifying enzymes, and decreased proliferation and inflammation of cells. Resveratrol, which is also found in the skin of red Grapes, also has several health benefits. It also displays chemotherapeutic properties such as anti-inflammation

Try these ideas for improving your Cancer therapy response;

If there is a loss of appetite:

•           Eat five or six smaller meals per day

•           Start with a high-protein diet while your appetite is strongest

•           Keep favourite high-calorie foods and beverages within easy reach

•           Try to be as physically active as you can be to help stimulate your appetite

 

Nausea and Vomiting:

•           Have small and frequent meals

•           Eating foods and sipping on clear liquids at room temperature or cooler may be easier to tolerate

•           Avoid high-fat, greasy, spicy, or overly sweet foods

•           Avoid foods with a strong odour

•           Sip on beverages between meals rather than with meals

•           For vomiting, avoid eating until vomiting is controlled, then try sipping on small amounts of clear liquids such as broth or cranberry juice. It may also be beneficial to nibble on plain foods such as Bread, Khakra or Crackers

 

Fatigue:

•           Try to drink plenty of fluids. Being dehydrated can make fatigue worse. Aim for at least 8 cups of hydrating fluid each day unless advised to restrict fluids for another medical condition. Hydrating fluids include water, fruit juices, broth, soup, smoothies

 

Diarrhea:

•           Drink plenty of liquids such as water, fruit juices, soup broth, Lemon water, black tea with Lemon

•           Eat small amounts of soft, bland foods.

•           Include water-soluble foods such as Bananas, Apple, Oats, etc. in our diet

 

Eating certain fruits rich in Vitamin C can significantly improve your health, especially during and after cancer treatment. Many fruits provide antioxidants to help fight cancer cells' growth and may even offer other health benefits to help ease specific side effects of treatment. Enjoying these healthy fruits in combination with a well-rounded diet that includes vegetables and legumes (beans), good whole grain choices include whole Wheat, Oats/oatmeal, Rye, Barley, Brown Rice, Millets, etc., can get you started on the road to recovery.