From diagnosis to long-term survival, important lifestyle factors, such as diet and physical activity, may improve the quality of life of anyone who has ever been diagnosed with cancer. Guidelines for both diet and physical activity for cancer survivors have been developed by the American Cancer Society, or ACS. These guidelines include a diet rich in fiber, antioxidants, healthy fats and low to moderate physical exercise.
Limited Processed and Red Meats
Although no studies have addressed the effect of processed or red meat on the progression of cancer or its return after treatment, ACS reports there is increased risk of stomach, prostate and colorectal cancers with excess consumption of these and advises cancer survivors, those having been diagnosed with cancer, in treatment or not, to limit their consumption.
Healthy Unsaturated Fats
In 2003 the ACS convened a group of 19 experts to evaluate evidence for optimal nutrition for cancer survivors and found that although historical interest has linked dietary fat to colorectal and breast cancer, no evidence has associated total fat intake with cancer recurrence or survival. However, eating foods rich in omega-3s, such as cold water fish and walnuts, is encouraged because they at least lower the risk for cardiovascular diseases. A diet rich in saturated fats can lead to obesity, which is tied to a higher risk of cancer returning after treatment and shorter survival for many cancer types.
Antioxidant-Rich Foods
Five servings daily of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, such as oranges, grapes, berries, kale and spinach, are advised, especially deeply colored vegetables because they are more nutrient dense than most fruits. Variety is important so that different phytochemicals are consumed to strengthen the body against the risk of infection. Raw vegetables should be avoided during treatment for pathogens on these foods may increase the risk of infection.
Fiber-Rich Foods
Although there is no evidence that eating fiber-rich foods, such as whole grains and beans, improves cancer survival, they are important to health and may reduce the risk of heart disease.
Moderate Doses of Soy
Soy is a protein source that can replace meat in a cancer diet. However, because high doses of soy have estrogen-like effects, excessive soy consumption may cause certain breast cancers to spread. Ingesting concentrated soy powders or eating more than three servings of soy per day is not advised for breast cancer survivors.
Low to Moderate Physical Exercise
Physical activity may have a beneficial effect on the quality of life of cancer victims, and for breast cancer survivors, in particular, it may reduce fatigue and help with energy balance. Although more research is needed, the National Cancer Institute reports there is evidence that moderate exercise after diagnosis lessens the risk of cancer recurring and may increase survival rates.
Although the ability to exercise varies with each cancer survivor, some form of moderate exercise, or low exercise in the case of those who did not exercise previous to diagnosis, can improve mood, increase self-esteem and reduce depression and anxiety. Referral to an exercise specialist can help determine the optimal exercise program to suit individual needs.
References
- American Cancer Society: Nutrition and Physical Activity During and After Cancer Treatment: Answers to Common Questions
- National Cancer Institute: Physical Activity and Cancer
- Cancer Journal for Clinicians: Nutrition and Physical Activity During and After Cancer Treatment: An American Cancer Society Guide for Informed Choices
- American Cancer Society: Nutrition for the Person with Cancer During Treatment: A Guide for Patients and Families
- CancerNetwork.com: Nutrition During and After Cancer Therapy
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