Lung cancer occurs when cancerous cells develop in your lung tissue and may spread throughout your body. Since more people in the United States die of lung cancer than any other form, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, early detection and treatment are key. A healthy diet may increase your chance for full, stable recovery, improve your quality of life and help to prevent complications.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are grains that have retained their natural form. As a result, they provide more fiber and nutrients than refined grains, such as white flour. Avoiding refined foods, such as enriched pasta and breads, and eating more sources of B-vitamins, such as whole grains, may help to reduce lung cancer symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC. Nutritious examples include long-grain brown rice, wild rice, pearled barley, quinoa, air-popped popcorn and steel-cut oats. As rich sources of complex carbohydrates, whole grains promote positive energy levels and help your brain produce the feel-good brain chemical serotonin, which may help reduce anxiety.
Dairy Products
Dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, provide rich amounts of calcium and protein. Consuming sufficient amounts of protein is important for maintaining physical strength, healthy body weight and immune function when faced with cancer. If you have difficulty consuming sufficient amounts of calories, the American Cancer Institute recommends using whole milk in place of nonfat milk on hot and cold cereals and topping fish and chicken with whole milk while cooking. If you have difficulty chewing or swallowing solid food or your appetite is reduced, try a fruit, milk and yogurt smoothie or sip chocolate or strawberry-flavored milk between meals.
Organic Meats and Eggs
Organic meats and eggs are produced using natural farming techniques. Thus, they contain fewer preservatives and chemicals than processed and non-organic meats. The UMMC lists organic meats and eggs as "quality protein sources" and valuable components of a balanced diet aimed at preventing weight and nutrient loss and increasing muscle mass for lung cancer patients. To ease digestion, choose lean, tender cuts of meat, such as tenderloin steak and skinless chicken or turkey breasts. Try topping whole grain bread with sliced, baked chicken breast or an egg and vegetable omelet for breakfast.
Healthy Fats
Healthy fats promote nutrient absorption, positive energy levels and brain function. As calorie-rich foods, fat sources may also help to prevent unintentional weight loss and related fatigue. The National Cancer Institute recommends adding peanut or other nut butters to crackers, bread, pancakes, waffles and fruit slices and adding nuts, seeds or wheat germ for added fat and calories in salads, cereals and yogurt. Other healthy fat sources include olive, canola and peanut oils, avocados and whole olives.
