Conclusive science-based recommendations on diet for cancer survivors have not been finalized. Until recently, research was focused on reducing the risk of primary cancers. Diet has been shown to have a signifigant effect on cancers of the lung, colon, esophagus, stomach, breast and prostate. Scientists have started to investigate how dietary factors impact survivorship, but at this point findings suggest that the guidelines set to help prevent primary cancer may also help guard against recurrence. These guidelines focus on three lifestyle areas; promoting weight control, daily physical activity and a healthy diet.
High Calorie Foods and Sweetened Beverages
Limit the consumption of energy-dense foods and avoid sugary drinks. Choosing healthy foods and beverages instead of those that are high in added sugar and fat can help prevent overweight and obesity and thereby reduce cancer risk. Energy-dense foods tend to be processed with sugar and fat added to improve palatability; examples include Sweet baked goods and high-fat dairy treats. Sweetened beverages include soda, punch, many specialty coffee drinks and energy drinks.
Plant Foods
Eat mostly plant foods. The American Institute for Cancer Research, or AICR, recommends filling at least two-thirds of your plate with plant foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans. Research shows that vegetables and fruits may protect against developing a range of cancers. These foods are loaded with vitamins and minerals, which help keep the body healthy and strengthen our immune system. They include phytochemicals, which can help to protect cells in the body from damage that may lead to cancer. Plant foods can support weight control efforts, as they are low-calorie foods.
Red Meat and Processed Meat
Red meat includes beef, pork and lamb. Red meat contains substances that are linked to colon cancer. Studies also show that those who consume high amounts of meat tend to eat few plant foods; therefore they benefit less from the cancer-preventing components they offer. The AICR recommends no more than 18 oz. of meat per week.
Processed meat includes meats preserved by smoking, curing or salting, or by adding preservatives. Processed foods include ham, bacon, pastrami and salami, and hot dogs and sausage. When meat is processed or preserved, cancer-causing substances called carcinogens can form. These substances may damage cells in the body, leading to the development of cancer. The AICR reports that there is no recommended safe amount of processed meat intake.
Alcohol
Limit daily alcohol consumption to two or fewer drinks for men and one or fewer drinks for women. Although there are noted heart-health benefits to moderate alcohol intake, according to AICR, there is convincing evidence that alcohol increases the risk of cancer of the mouth, pharynx, larynx, esophagus and breast, as well as colorectal cancer in men. Scientists are studying exactly how alcohol causes cancer, but a theory is that alcohol directly damages DNA, thereby increasing cancer risk.
Salty Foods
Limit the consumption of salty foods and foods processed with salt. Salt and salt-preserved foods may increase chances of developing stomach cancer. Studies have shown that high salt intake may damage the lining of the stomach. Most of the salt in the diet comes from processed foods. Make sure to check the sodium content on Nutrition Facts labels. Salt intake should be 2,400 mg per day or less.
