Lung cancer challenges your body's natural resources and defenses. Your nutritional plan must fulfill an increased requirement for energy and immunity, as well as addressing the side effects of cancer therapy. From early diagnosis to late stages of lung cancer, your diet should address your changing needs and symptoms. According to the National Cancer Institute, making the right food choices can help you maintain strength, fight infection and improve your response to cancer treatment.
Significance
Lung cancer is the most common form of cancer around the world; unfortunately, it is also the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Lung cancer targets your respiratory organs, compromising your ability to utilize oxygen and maintain your activity level. Treatment plans may include chemotherapy, radiation or targeted drug therapy. The National Cancer Institute states that being well-nourished can improve your prognosis and increase the success rate of cancer treatment.
Concerns
Weight loss is a significant risk in lung cancer. Blockage of the airways by tumors or accumulation of fluids in the chest cavity make breathing a challenge and cost you energy. Chemotherapy can cause nausea, vomiting and decreased appetite, while radiation treatments of the chest may irritate the esophagus and make swallowing painful, according to the Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, New York. The life changes that you face as a lung cancer patient can lead to depression and anxiety. Selecting foods that support your emotional well-being as well as your physical health is a vital part of nutritional planning.
Goals
Nutritional goals should focus on minimizing symptoms and side effects of therapy and on maximizing your quality of life. Increasing your intake of protein and calories will take top priority as you progress through your treatment program. Proteins and healthy fats are essential for promoting tissue growth and repairing damaged cells. Protecting your immune system with foods high in antioxidants is another important goal, advises the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Suggestions/Solutions
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends quality proteins like organic meats, eggs and whey to optimize tissue-building benefits. If you have a loss of appetite or difficulty eating, you can supplement your diet with protein-based shakes to maintain muscle mass. Using fresh produce, whole-grain products and polyunsaturated oils like olive or canola will ensure that you're getting the maximum nutritional value from your meals. To prevent dehydration, cut back on caffeine and alcohol, recommends the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Supporting your immune system with antioxidants like vitamins A, C and E will help your body fight secondary infections and promote tissue repair. Iron-rich foods like lean beef, wheat bran and spinach will assist oxygen transport to your tissues. Foods high in vitamin B12, such as eggs, poultry and fish, may help relieve depression. Eating a variety of produce -- especially fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants like blueberries, papaya, kale, squash and tomatoes -- may improve outcomes for lung cancer patients.
Considerations
In addition to dietary sources, you may need nutritional supplements to ease the side effects of cancer therapy. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that probiotic supplements can soothe gastric upset caused by chemotherapy, while fish oil capsules can provide extra omega-3 acids to boost immunity. Consult your health care provider about the foods, supplements and medications that are best for your symptoms and stage of treatment.
