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Nutrition and Cancer

Nutrition and Cancer: Explore the impact of nutrition on cancer prevention and treatment, highlighting foods that may help or hinder

What are the risk factors associated with food in the causation of cancer?
Diet plays a major role in the causation and prevention of cancer. Nearly 30% of cancers are estimated to be due to the western diet (standard American diet), sedentary lifestyle habits, and their consequences. Due to increased adoption of this diet in our lifestyle from the western world, which has high concentrations of sugars, processed foods with less fiber, and a sedentary lifestyle, there might be an increased incidence of cancers in the Indian subcontinent in recent years. Increased intake of foods with highly concentrated sugars, processed foods, and less fiber impairs glucose metabolism, subsequently leading to obesity and cancer.

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Can we prevent cancer with dietary modifications?
Yes, there is ample evidence that cancer can be prevented with a balanced diet. A diet with complex carbohydrates, unprocessed foods, high fiber, whole grains, green leafy vegetables, vitamins, and minerals through natural foods helps in the prevention of multiple cancers.

What are the dietary restrictions which are needed during the treatment of cancers?
Once cancer is diagnosed, some patients tend to consume less food than required. Growing evidence suggests that there is no need for a restricted diet during cancer treatment. One should eat according to their body's needs and not starve. The important consideration is to consume home-cooked food to avoid contaminated and unhygienic outside food.

What is a neutropenic diet?
A neutropenic diet is advised during the period of neutropenia, particularly in blood cancer patients. During neutropenia, there is an increased risk of infections compared to normal. Therefore, this diet was formulated to limit individuals' exposure to harmful bacteria in foods and drinks. This diet avoids raw vegetables, undercooked food, and outside food. However, recent literature suggests that if proper hygienic measures are maintained, there is no need for a stricter neutropenic diet.

Can we share the food with cancer patients?
Many family members assume that cancer spreads from one individual to another and start isolating them from the family and even feeding them separately. Contrary to this assumption, cancer is a non-communicable disease, and family members can share space and food with cancer-affected individuals. It is crucial for cancer patients to receive support from their family more than ever and be motivated to maintain a positive attitude.