In the Netherlands, approximately 30% of mortality is the result of cancer, after cardiovascular disease, cancer is the second cause of death (source CBS).
What is cancer?
Cancer is a disease in which excessive cell growth occurs. This new growth can manifest itself in a growth (tumor), but also in a diffuse process (such as in leukemia). A benign tumor is usually a local tumor that does not grow quickly and does not spread. Malignant growths sometimes grow quickly and can invade neighboring tissue and lymph nodes, or affect distant organs via the blood or lymphatic vessels. However, benign growths can also become malignant over time. Of the various types of cancer, lung cancer is the most common in men, followed by cancer of the prostate, colon, bladder and stomach. In women, the order is: breast cancer, cancer of the colon, uterus, lungs and ovaries. Certain forms of cancer occur particularly at older ages (such as prostate cancer in men). Cancer treatment is steadily improving and the number of patients undergoing treatment is increasing.
Nutritional advice for the prevention of cancer
Based on various studies, the following nutritional recommendations can be given to limit cancer risk:
- The diet must be balanced and contain amounts of vitamins, minerals, trace elements and dietary fiber.
- Sufficient amounts of vegetables, fruit and grain products should be eaten.
- Do not drink alcohol daily and if alcohol is consumed, limit it to a maximum of 1 – 2 glasses. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption (3 or more drinks are the main causes of cancer of the mouth and throat).
- The consumption of heavily burnt parts of food.
- Do not heat oil or fat above 200 degrees for long periods of time for frying. If oil or fat is heated above 200 degrees for a long time, carcinogenic substances can be formed.
Nutritional advice for cancer patients
There are currently no nutritional recommendations in conventional medicine that can inhibit the growth of a malignant tumor. However, good nutrition is important for the success of cancer therapy, because the risk of complications and the severity of side effects is reduced, there is a better defense against infections and recovery after therapy is faster (wound healing), and recovery of the skin to radiotherapy. Moreover, a well-nourished patient feels better and suffers less from fatigue and lethargy. Nutrition is an important supportive therapy.
Nutritional advice for cancer depends greatly on the type of cancer, the stage of the disease, the nutritional status, the therapy and any complications, such as an infection.
The various cancer treatments often place additional demands on the diet. After surgery, extra nutrients are needed for wound healing. Radiotherapy also damages healthy cells, which can lead to certain complaints. Chemotherapy also affects healthy cells. Lack of appetite and nausea are common complaints during the treatments.
In general, a protein, mineral and vitamin diet is recommended. Protein enrichment only makes sense if the energy requirement is met because if there is insufficient energy intake, the protein is used as an energy source. When your appetite decreases, there is a great temptation to skip meals. Frequent small meals promote appetite and can make the diet rich in energy.
It is also very important to keep an eye on the moisture supplies (at least 1.5 liters per day ). A lack of fluid worsens nausea. Suitable drinks are milk, yoghurt, buttermilk, fruit juice, vegetable juice and stock. Sometimes it is necessary to shift the time of eating to the evening or at night, when you feel less nauseous.
Cancer patients often experience that food tastes different. If the hot meal is unpleasant, a cold meal may be preferred. Forcing food and talking about it can be counterproductive.
If you have a dry mouth you can do the following:
- Drink something with every bite of food
- Use a creamy sandwich spread
- Use porridge, custard or yoghurt instead of bread
- Have something to drink at hand in between
For a sore throat you can try this:
- Avoid salt and sharp spices
- Use soft fruit; eating strawberries, peaches, bananas, pears or apples instead of citrus fruits
- Dishes such as soup, sauce, fruits and yogurt can be softened with whipped cream
- Allow hot dishes to cool slightly and consume drinks at room temperature
Regular milk, sweet porridge and custard cause mucus formation in the mouth and throat, but sour milk and sour milk products do not. If you suffer from too much mucus in the mouth and throat, you can regularly rinse your mouth with water, carbonated drinks, tea or dark beer.
What to do for intestinal cramps
In case of intestinal cramps and diarrhea, it is important to consume sufficient fluid and salts to prevent dehydration (at least 2.5 liters per day). You can get ORS at the pharmacy or drugstore that contain all the important salts and minerals to prevent dehydration.