Surprising Information about Nutrition for Mesothelioma Patients

by admin on 2009/04/25

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma you have probably already sought out a good attorney that specializes in these types of cancers. It is now important to make sure your nutritional intake is correct. Here is some surprising information about foods and nutrition and the role they play for those with mesothelioma and other cancers.

According to the National Cancer Institute somewhere in the neighborhood of 35% of all cancers are related to problems with nutrition. Mesothelioma is a cancer that is not related to improper nutritional intake; it is brought about by breathing fibers from asbestos. However, a good diet of the right foods can be of benefit to those suffering with mesothelioma by: fighting off infection, keeping the immune system strong, slowing the growth of the cancer, and easing the pain.

Disclaimer: This is presented for informational purposes only. It is always suggested to seek out the advice of a medical physician. Now lets move forward

Here are basic suggestions about what is generally considered proper nutrition for those suffering from mesothelioma and other type of cancer. For specific suggestions it will vary depending on each person’s medical condition, age, weight and more. As before, the advice of a certified physian is always best and they can help you put together a nutritional plan that works just for you.

1. Stay away from processed foods and prepackaged meals-processed foods cause problems with the metabolism and immune system functions and clog the lymphatic system.
2. Completely stop smoking or using and tobacco products.
3. Drink plenty of fluids-Aside effect from chemotherapy can be diarrhea or constipation. Drinking lots of fluids will help to replenish what your body is losing or needs.
4. Stop drinking alcohol as much as possible.
5. Eat more fresh fruit and vegetables. Fruits and Vegetables should become at least 50% of what you eat daily. They are filled with natural vitamins and minerals that your body needs.
6. Make sure to prepare foods in manner that will not be an invitation to bacteria. Raw or undercooked meats and fish can contain bacteria that can be harmful to your immune system.
7. When eating fish choose those with low levels of mercury.
8. Try as best you can to avoids fast food all together. Many of the fast food choices are high in the "bad" fats, contain many processed products, are too high in sugar and in general are not fit for a good nutritional diet.
9. Eat more foods that are high in fiber. Here’s a list of some of the more popular high fiber foods: apples, bananas, avocados, beets, potatoes, spinach, kale, brown rice, black beans, lima beans, kidney beans, bran cereal.

Probably the most conventional treatments for patients suffering with mesothelioma is chemotherapy. It is very important to watch your nutritional intake if you are undergoing this type of treatment.

There are a number of side effects that accompany chemotherapy—top on the list is anorexia. Patients feel so nauseated they often don’t eat that much.

Because of this it is important tochoosefoods that are filled with proteins and calories-so that when you do eat it will give you the best nutritional value that is high in protein.

Here are a few ideas:

1. Add honey to cereal
2. Sauté meats instead of boiling
3. Dip slices of fruit, like apple, in peanut butter
4. Add black beans or kidney beans to salads
5. Munch on a handful of nuts
6. Mix granola in yogurt

At the top of this articlewe said we would share some surprising information, here is a final piece of informationto consider and talk over with your doctor. Recent studies aresuggesting that vitamin C may decrease the effectiveness of chemotherapy. This is not offered bring about concern, but to be discussed with your health care provider.

Finally, If you or a loved one has mesothelioma you also may want to think about getting advice from a mesothelioma attorney that handles these types of cases.


Leave a Comment

{ 1 trackback }

Previous post:

Next post: