A recent study in the International Journal of Cancer showed 1 in 3 cases of cancer can be prevented by not smoking, avoiding harmful UV radiation, maintaining a healthy weight, moderating alcohol consumption, cutting down on red and processed meat, eating more fruits and vegetables and being physically active. That sounds good, isn’t it? But is there a diet to cure cancer? I have seen patients drastically change their diet after a cancer diagnosis. Meantime, taking a bunch of supplements, juicing, and coffee enema, only to be disappointed when cancer comes back. Overall, nutrition plays a vital role throughout cancer treatment. Because cancer has different types (brain, lung, kidney, liver, bone, skin…), different stages (stage 0-4), and develops at different ages (infants to elderly), there is no one diet fit for all. For example, when patients have nausea and diarrhea due to chemo and radiation therapy, eating small, frequent meals can provide adequate protein and hydration to help the patient immune system and speed up the healing from infection.
Here are my recommendations to improve cancer patients' overall wellbeing. Eating a rainbow diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables, low glycemic index whole grains, lean, non-processed meat, and wild-caught fatty fish. Organic, non-GMO foods are preferred when possible. Juicing is not recommended due to limit the intake of insoluble fiber. Take Vitamin D3, 5000 IU/day. However, there has not been a study to prove supplementation cure cancer. Try functional foods, such as turmeric, reishi mushroom, and green tea, which have anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects. Most important, enjoy meals with friends and family.