Good nutrition can play a big part in making you feel better and in keeping up your energy, although there is no definitive proof that eating well improves survival rates for mesothelioma cancer patients. Some limited studies suggest that eating fruit and vegetables lowers the risk of developing mesothelioma. Researchers theorize that anitoxidents such as beta–carotene and carotenorids and other vitamins contained in these foods may have a protective effect.
Experiments with antioxidant supplements rather than whole foods have produced mixed results.
American Cancer Society recommends that cancer patients eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day, whole grains rather than processed grains and sugars, and limit the consumption of fatty red meats. It stresses that cancer patients need enough protein and suggests a diet that includes lean meat, fish, and low–fat dairy products, which are all good protein sources. It also suggests avoiding salt–cured, pickled, and smoked food. Unfortunately, a mesothelioma cancer treatment such as chemotherapy and even the disease itself may affect your appetite and ability to tolerate certain foods. Temporary nausea or loss of appetite is not uncommon. You may have to eat smaller meals, include liquid supplements, or adjust your diet in other ways in order to cope and get the best nutrition.
We recommend consulting with both your doctor and dietitian to find the best food plan for you. Your doctor may also suggest vitamin supplements and minerals depending upon your particular mesothelioma treatment. For example, patients who were given the enzyme inhibitor pemetrexed or Alimta were able to reduce their nausea from this treatment by taking B vitamins.
Resource : Complementary Therapies
Mesothelioma Treatment and Nutrition
Most mesothelioma treatment plans are designed to destroy cancer cells, but may also destroy healthy cells in the process. A major side effect of this is malnutrition due to fatigue, appetite loss, and pain. Mouth sores, vomiting, and improper bowl function are other factors that may affect ones food intake and nutrition. Along with developing a treatment program, it is often necessary to enlist a nutritionist to develop a nutritional plan as well, especially when undergoing more aggressive treatments. It is important to be prepared for both the good days, when one can consume more food, and the bad days when one may not feel like eating as much. Supplements or foods that may be tolerable should be on hand for days one may have issues with their appetite. Staying informed and being prepared can help one maintain a more positive attitude and decrease anxiety.
Healthy Food Groups
Nutritious diet is important in the prevention and cure of various diseases.
Since no single food group can nourish the body with all the vital ingredients it requires, it is important that we consume a variety of healthy foods to derive the nutrition our body needs. There are five main food groups, they are:
• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Cereals and Pulses
• Dairy
• Poultry, Fish and Meat products
A healthy balanced diet of these five food groups ensures essential vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber. The food group serving size will depend upon various factors like age, activity level, body size and gender. It is also important that one eat a variety of foods from within and across the food groups. As some foods from within a food group provide more nutrients than others.
Bok choy – Commonly known as Chinese celery is a rich source of iron, calcium and manganese. It helps to improve the bone health and makes them stronger. Bok choy is also a good source of vitamin C which helps in wound healing, boosts the immune system and fight against infections. Potassium in bok choy also helps to maintain a normal blood pressure and prevent heart diseases.
Broccoli – Broccoli is loaded with vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin E, vitamin C and fiber. It has a protective effect against bladder, prostate and colon cancer, heart diseases, cataracts and hip fractures. All these antioxidants work synergistically in the body to reduce the oxidative stress and oxidation of LDL cholesterol.
Blueberries - Blueberry has a rich flavor and is the powerhouse for antioxidants packed with phytonutrients called anthocyanidins that scavenges the free radicals that can cause damage to cells and tissues causing cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, varicose veins, peptic ulcers, hemorrhoids, cancer and heart diseases.
Blackberries – Epicatechin and catechins the natural compounds in blackberries help to scavenge the free radicals which can cause cancerous cells.
Brown rice – To maintain a healthy body weight it is very important to focus on whole grains like brown rice and decrease the consumption of refined grains like white rice as far as possible.
( Diet Health Club)
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