Over 40,000 children and adults in the United States are diagnosed with the blood cancer leukemia each year. Damaged and malignant white cells growing in the bone marrow are the starting point for leukemia. White blood cells eventually overwhelm the numbers of healthy blood cells and symptoms such as anemia, bruising and blood clotting problems arise. Following recommendations for a nourishing diet can help you manage symptoms both before and after treatment, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC).
Leukemia
While there are several types of leukemia, each one begins in the bone marrow, the pliable soft interior of particular bones. The DNA of leukocytes, which are normal white blood cells, become corrupted and the cells grow unchecked. The MSKCC explains that destructive, malignant cells then push out the healthy red and white blood cells, as well as the platelets. When the diseased white cells take over the bone marrow, the numbers of healthy cells and platelets dwindle and the body becomes vulnerable to infection and anemia. Platelets are instrumental in the mechanism of blood clotting, and when the numbers of platelets is reduced, bruising and bleeding result. The rogue white cells can take up residence in internal organs, including the spleen, kidneys and liver.
Diet and Nutrition
The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) recommends that you eat nutritiously to enhance health, improve strength and improve your tolerance of the side effects of treatment. While there is no food, supplement or herb proven to treat leukemia, the LLS notes that you can make healthy lifestyle choices to boost your general well-being. For example, 5-10 servings a day of fruits and vegetables are recommended, along with whole grains and protein foods that are low in fat. Phytonutrients, which number in the thousands, are compounds in plants essential to a good diet. It is best to consume phytonutrients by eating fruits and vegetables rather than through supplements, advocates the LLS.
Neutropenic Diet
Neutrophils are white blood cells that help your immune system resist infectious diseases, according to the Neutropenia Support Association (NSA). Chemotherapy is a common cause of neutropenia. If your neutrophil count becomes abnormally low, your doctor might put you on a special diet plan. The nutritional guidelines for neutropenia include avoiding raw or uncooked eggs, fish and meats. Most fruits and all vegetables need to be cooked. The NSA also recommends eating pasteurized dairy products, staying away from salad bars, avoiding mold-ripened cheeses and consuming packaged cold cuts instead of sliced deli meats to avoid bacteria.
Herbs
The Institute of Traditional Medicine (ITM) outlines the herbs that Chinese physicians might prescribe for leukemia. These plants include peony for anemia, raw licorice for oral ulcerations and curcuma for swelling of the lymph nodes and organs. The ITM also recommends that you increase your intake of antioxidants as well as supplements such as selenium, high doses of vitamin C and vitamin A and flavonoids. Because leukemia is a serious disease, only take herbs and supplements under the supervision of your physician.
