Following a cancer diagnosis, as part of your plan to return to good health and lead a long, healthy life, you should maintain a well-balanced diet. MayoClinic.com indicates that a diet for cancer survivors is no different than a well-balanced diet for healthy individuals.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables should play an important role in every cancer survivor's diet. Five servings -- or more -- of fruits and vegetables can help you maintain a healthy weight, improve your heart health and is beneficial for the overall health of your body. Eat a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. Fruits can also serve as a healthy snack if you are craving something sweet between meals. The American Cancer Society notes that eating more fruits and vegetables has been shown to reduce the occurrence of lung, mouth, stomach, colon and esophagus cancers. While some individuals believe fruits and vegetables can help prevent the re-occurrence of cancer, limited research is available to back this claim up.
Healthy Fats
Choose foods with healthy fats -- such as omega- 3 fatty acids. Try to reduce your intake of saturated fats and trans fats. Opt for fish, lean meats, seeds, eggs and nuts -- which are also good sources of protein. The American Cancer Society indicates that excessive intake of fats along with obesity have been linked to an increased occurrence of cancer, shorter survival rates and a higher risk of cancer returning upon completion of treatment.
Carbohydrates
A cancer survivor's diet should include healthy sources of carbohydrates. Eat a diet full of whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes. A well-balanced combination of foods provide your body with the fuel it needs to function on a daily basis, as well as with essential vitamins and nutrients required for good health.
Fiber
Fiber can help lower cholesterol levels, reduce the occurrence of heart disease and help to improve bowel function. Beans, fruits, whole grains and vegetables are good sources of fiber. The link between reducing cancer and consuming fiber is weak; however, due to the other benefits of fiber, the American Cancer Society strongly suggests consuming fiber.
Meats
The American Cancer Society suggests that eating large portions of red and processed meats -- including deli meats and hot dogs -- can increase your risk of stomach, prostate and colorectal cancer. Fried, broiled or grilled meats can create chemicals that can increase cancer risks. For this reason, you should avoid processed meats. Opt for lean meats, fish and poultry.
Water
Drink plenty of water as you recover from cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that cancer survivors drinks at least eight, 8 oz. servings of liquid per day. This can help reduce fatigue, dizziness and nausea associated with cancer medications and cancer recovery. Drinking plenty of liquids can also help reduce the risk of developing bladder or colon cancer. Cancer survivors should avoid alcohol intake as well.
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