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By Dr. Shilpi Sharma in Surgical Oncology , Cancer Care / Oncology , Head & Neck Oncology
Jan 17 , 2025 | 4 min read
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Every year, millions of new cases of cancer are diagnosed, making it one of the top causes of death globally. Although environmental and genetic influences are widely recognised, increasing research highlights the role of nutrition in the development, prevention, and treatment of cancer. Experts have studied the connection between nutrition and cancer over the years, offering insights into how particular dietary practices and substances can help or hurt cancer prevention and treatment.
Understanding the Diet-Cancer Link
When cells in the body start to grow out of control and frequently form tumours, cancer begins. Lifestyle choices, environmental pollutants, and genetic abnormalities can all cause this aberrant development. Although it is impossible to completely prevent cancer risk, certain lifestyle decisions—especially those related to diet—have an impact on how the disease starts and spreads.
Diet impacts cancer risk through various mechanisms. Key nutrients like fibre, antioxidants, vitamins, and fats can help repair damaged DNA, regulate cell growth, and control inflammation—all of which influence cancer development. Moreover, excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, contributes to the risk of cancers like breast, colorectal, and pancreatic.
In contrast, a balanced diet with plant-based foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats can lower cancer risk by boosting the immune system and supporting metabolic functions.
Diet and Cancer Prevention
Research suggests certain dietary patterns reduce cancer risk. A plant-based diet is linked to lower cancer risk due to the abundance of antioxidants, vitamins, and phytochemicals in these foods. These compounds fight oxidative stress, neutralise free radicals, and prevent DNA damage.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C, E, and folate, as well as phytochemicals (e.g., carotenoids, flavonoids), these foods help prevent oxidative damage and inflammation, both linked to cancer.
- Whole Grains and Fiber: High-fiber diets may decrease the risk of colorectal cancer. Fiber helps manage weight, which is crucial for preventing obesity-related cancers.
- Legumes and Plant Proteins: Beans, lentils, and peas provide plant-based proteins that replace animal proteins high in saturated fats. A diet rich in legumes can decrease the risk of colorectal and other cancers by reducing inflammation and promoting healthy weight management.
- Healthy Fats: While not all fats are harmful, omega-3 fatty acids from sources like fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts can reduce inflammation and inhibit cancer growth. In contrast, trans fats and excessive saturated fats found in processed and fried foods may heighten cancer risk by promoting chronic inflammation.
Nutrition During Cancer Treatment
Maintaining strength, reducing side effects, and promoting recovery are all made possible by proper nutrition for cancer patients. Treatments like as radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery can cause nausea, exhaustion, and appetite loss. Maintaining energy levels, strengthening the immune system, and enhancing general quality of life can all be achieved with a balanced diet.
- Managing Weight and Appetite: Many patients experience unintended weight loss and reduced appetite. Consuming calorie-dense, protein-rich foods can help prevent malnutrition. Smoothies made from fruits, vegetables, yoghurt, and protein powder can be an easy and nutritious option for those struggling with solid foods.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated is vital, as dehydration worsens symptoms like fatigue. Patients are encouraged to drink water, herbal teas, and electrolyte-rich beverages to stay hydrated.
- Immune Support: Cancer treatments can weaken the immune system, making infections more likely. Foods like citrus fruits (vitamin C), leafy greens (folate), and garlic (immune-boosting) can strengthen the body’s defences
- Managing Side Effects: Many cancer treatments cause gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Avoiding greasy or spicy foods can alleviate nausea.
Foods and Substances to Avoid
While many foods are beneficial for cancer prevention and treatment, some foods increase cancer risk and should be limited or avoided:
- Processed Meats: Processed meats like bacon, sausages, and deli meats are classified as carcinogenic due to preservatives like nitrates and nitrites, which can form cancer-causing compounds.
- Red Meat: Too much consumption of red meat has been associated with higher risks of colorectal and other cancers. Grilling or barbecuing meat at high temperatures also creates carcinogenic compounds. Limiting red meat and opting for plant-based proteins or lean poultry and fish is recommended.
- Alcohol: Alcohol increases the risk of several cancers, including liver, breast, and colorectal cancers. Reducing or avoiding alcohol can lower cancer risk.
- Tobacco: Tobacco, both in smoked (cigarette, bidi, hookah) and chewed form (pan, masala, paste, powder form), is harmful and is the main cause of several cancers in the body. Simultaneous consumption of tobacco and alcohol significantly increases the risk of cancer development.
Conclusion
A healthy diet is essential for preventing, treating, and recovering from cancer. A diet high in lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and plant-based foods can boost immunity, lower the risk of cancer, and help the body fight cancer. Appropriate diet aids in healing, energy maintenance, and side effect management during cancer therapy. As our knowledge of the connection between nutrition and cancer grows, it becomes clear that our long-term health is greatly influenced by the foods we eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does diet impact cancer risk?
Diet can support DNA repair, reduce inflammation, and lower cancer risk by including healthy foods and avoiding processed ones.
Can diet improve recovery during cancer treatment?
Yes, a balanced diet helps manage side effects, maintain strength, and support healing.
What should cancer patients eat to maintain energy?
High-protein, calorie-dense foods like smoothies can help maintain energy.
Which foods should be avoided during cancer treatment?
Avoid processed meats, excessive red meat, alcohol and tobacco.
How important is hydration for cancer patients?
Hydration is crucial to reduce fatigue, manage nausea, and support recovery.

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