Lung cancer occurs when cancerous cells accumulate in your lung tissue with the capacity to spread to other areas. In 2010, 222,250 Americans were diagnosed with lung cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. Early diagnosis and treatment can help increase your chance of a full, stable recovery. A healthy diet may add to these benefits and help prevent or reduce complications of cancer treatment. For best results, seek specified guidance from your doctor or dietitian.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are prime sources of antioxidants -- nutrients that help protect your body from damage caused by toxins known as free radicals. Over time, free radical damage may lead to diseases, including cancer, according to the NCI. Antioxidants also boost your immune system's ability to fend off infections that may interfere with cancer recovery. Fruits and vegetables particularly rich in antioxidants include berries, cherries, kiwi, citrus fruits, papaya, guava, tomatoes, leafy greens, brussels sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, bell peppers and winter squash.
Whole Grains
Whole grains contain all nutrient-rich parts of the grain plant. As a result, they provide more protein, fiber and micronutrients, such as iron and zinc, than refined grains, such as white flour. Consuming foods rich in iron and zinc, including whole grains, may help reduce lung cancer symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. These include breathing difficulty, chest pain and fatigue. The fiber in whole grains helps your body eliminate waste more efficiently. Try starting your day with a whole grain cereal, such as whole grain bran flakes or steel-cut oatmeal. For lunch and dinner, choose brown rice, wild rice or whole wheat pasta, instead of enriched rice or pasta.
Cold-water Fish
Cold-water fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, herring, lake trout, flounder, sardines and halibut, are top food sources of essential fats known as omega-3 fatty acids. The UMMC recommends that lung cancer patients consume omega-3 fatty acids routinely for heightened immune function and reduced inflammation. As rich sources of protein, fish also promote lean tissue repair and physical strength necessary for recovery. Try swapping saturated fat sources, such as red and processed meats, in your diet out for cold-water fish regularly. Healthy cooking methods include baking, broiling, steaming, poaching and grilling atop olive oil or nonstick cooking spray.
Lean Meat and Eggs Whites
Lean meats, such as extra-lean ground beef and skinless poultry, and eggs are some of the richest food sources of protein. Consuming too little protein can cause delayed healing, according to the American Cancer Society, and people with cancer typically need more protein than people without cancer. Since lean meats and egg whites, like fish, contain less saturated fat than fatty meats and fried foods, they provide heart-healthy alternatives. Nutritious dishes based upon lean meat or egg whites include hamburgers and chili prepared with extra-lean ground beef, grilled chicken breast sandwiches and salads, egg white and vegetable omelets and egg salad made with hard boiled egg whites.
