Cervical cancer develops in the lower part of your cervix, the area where a fetus develops during pregnancy. It is caused by a virus called human papillomavirus, or HPV, which is spread through sexual contact, according to MayoClinic.com. Occasionally, the virus may lead to cervical cancer. Adjusting your diet to include healthy foods for your condition can promote overall body functions.
Protein-Rich Foods
Proteins are beneficial super foods if you have cervical cancer. They are essential nutrients that assist your body with development and repair of your blood, bones, skin, muscles and immune system. When your body contains insufficient protein amounts, you have lower resistance to infection and it increases your ability to recover from illnesses. If you suffer from cervical cancer, you will probably need more protein than usual. According to the American Cancer Society, cervical treatment such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy usually requires protein to fight infection and heal your tissues. Rich sources of protein include fish, lean meat, nuts, lentils, peas, dried beans and dairy products.
Healthy Fats
Healthy fats, also called unsaturated fats, play an important role in nutrition. Your body breaks down fats and converts them into energy, which aids in vitamin transport to other areas and tissue insulation. Cervical cancer patients need these fats for energy to complete their daily routine, according to the American Cancer Society. Choose polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats since they promote healthy cholesterol and heart levels. These fats are commonly found in canola oil, olive oil, peanut oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, lake trout, sardines, salmon, mackerel, herring, halibut and other fish sources.
Fruits and Vegetables
Vegetables and fruits are super foods to include in your cervical cancer diet. They are rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, folate, beta-carotene, selenium and other antioxidants that are beneficial for fighting cervical cancer, according to the "Johns Hopkins Patients Guide to Cervical Cancer" by Dr. Colleen McCormick and Gary Shapiro. Choose fruits and vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, apples, cabbage, oranges, mustard greens, collard greens, blueberries, turnips, strawberries, kale, spinach, watermelon and cantaloupes in your regular diet regimen. For best results, thoroughly wash your foods to reduce contaminants frequently found on produce.
Liquids
Water and other liquids are are important to your health. Your body needs sufficient liquid amounts to properly function. Failure to supply your body with liquids can lead to diarrhea, vomiting and nausea, according to the "Johns Hopkins Patients' Guide to Cervical Cancer." As a result, you should drink approximately eight 8 oz. glasses, or 64 oz., of water daily. This enables your body cells to retain fluids to flush away toxins and hydrate your organs.
References
- American Cancer Society: Nutrition for the Person With Cancer During Treatment
- MayoClinic.com: Cervical Cancer
- National Cancer Institute: What You Should Know About Cancer Treatment, Eating Well, and Eating Problems
- University of California San Francisco Medical Center: Nutrition and Coping with Cancer Symptoms
- "Johns Hopkins Patients' Guide to Cervical Cancer"; Dr. Colleen McCormick and Gary Shapiro; 2010
