About 19,000 people each year are diagnosed with primary brain cancer, according to 2000 data from the National Cancer Institute. Primary brain cancer means that the tumor originated in the brain instead of outside of the brain. Good nutrition is important during and after treatment for brain cancer. Nutrition therapy should be considered another way to help the body heal and maintain the strength needed to get through treatments.
Fats
Fats are an important component to eating healthy during brain cancer treatment. However, it is vital to consume the appropriate fats. Saturated fats, found in meat and dairy, can cause inflammation by supporting prostaglandin formation. Margarine, shortening and trans fats can do the same; you will want to avoid these fats. Omega-3 fats are highly desirable. These are the fats found in cold water fish such as salmon. Omega-3 is also found in flax seed. This important fat can actually help suppress tumor growth, reduce swelling and inflammation and boost the immune system, according to the National Brain Tumor Foundation.
Sugar
Brain tumor cells can consume 10 to 15 times more sugar than normal brain cells and high sugar intake suppresses the immune response and increases inflammation, notes the National Brain Tumor Foundation. To reduce the amount of refine sugared in the diet, choose whole grain products like quinoa, amaranth, buckwheat, millet, kamut, and spelt. To curb a sweet tooth, consume naturally sweet vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots. Fruit is a great option to curb a sugar craving.
Phytonutrients
The National Brain Tumor Foundation supports eating foods that are high in phytonutrients. Phytonutrients have tumor-fighting and immune-boosting properties. More than 2000 phytonutrients have been identified. Foods such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale, raspberries, blueberries, cherries, onions, garlic, sea vegetables and green tea have high phytonutrient contents.
Fiber
When undergoing brain cancer treatment, you can become constipated and/or have diarrhea. Increasing the fiber in your diet can help with both problems. Adequate fiber can also help regulate blood sugars, lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Fresh fruits, raw vegetables, legumes and whole flax seeds are great sources of fiber. When increasing fiber intake, it is important to increase the amount of fluid you drink.
