Healthy Meal Plans For Cancer

If you have cancer, are in remission or are concerned with developing cancer, following a healthy diet is a crucial component to your medical care or preventative measures. Many foods receive attention for their potential cancer-fighting properties, and others are scrutinized for their possible links to cancer. A healthy meal plan for cancer heavily emphasizes vegetarian foods.

Produce

Fruits and vegetables packed with fiber and antioxidants are believed to protect against cancer. Be sure to include a variety of vibrant colors -- which can indicate the nutrients in a fruit or vegetable -- to ensure intake of all types of healthy plant compounds. Carrots, pumpkin and other deeply colored orange vegetables contain beta carotene. Berries contain vitamin C and ellagic acid. Green leafy vegetables including spinach, kale and collards provide lutein and folate. Tomatoes, especially tomato products such as ketchup and tomato sauce, are high in lycopene. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and broccoli sprouts, cauliflower and cabbage contain sulforaphane.

Fats

Choosing the right type of fat is essential in a healthy diet for cancer. Red meats such as beef and lamb are high in unhealthy fats and should be consumed in small amounts. Instead, focus on fats that are unsaturated and high in omega 3s, a type of fatty acid that may help with cancer. Examples include avocado and flaxseeds; these foods are not only high in healthy fats -- they are also abundant in antioxidants.

Beans

Beans are an excellent source of fiber, which is believed to protect against certain cancers, especially colorectal cancer. They also contain compounds known as saponins that possibly protect healthy cells from cancer-causing damage. Soybeans and products made from soybeans such as soymilk and tofu are controversial in their role in cancer. They are composed of phytoestrogens, which may play a role in breast cancer cell growth. However, there is evidence that suggests intake of soy products earlier in life may protect you against breast cancer later in life. Speak with your doctor regarding soy intake.

Tea

If you are an avid coffee drinker, you may want to consider substituting your morning cup of joe with tea. Green tea in particular has been popular in studies and may be associated with decreased tumor growth. The compounds thought to afford this benefit are the healthy plant chemicals called catechins. To maximize the possible benefits of drinking tea, avoid pre-made iced tea beverages and brew your own.

Seasonings

Any diet, including one that is tailored to fight or prevent cancer, should be tasty and palatable for you to be inclined to follow it. Thankfully, there are several ingredients that not only impart flavor, but may also help you stick to a healthy meal plan for cancer. Experiment with fresh garlic, turmeric, rosemary, licorice root and chili peppers.