Maintaining optimal nutrition is vital for liver cancer patients, who might experience weight loss and nutrient deficiencies from a lack of appetite. The Cancer Treatment Centers of America says about 1/3 of all cancer deaths are associated with malnutrition, as reported by the National Cancer Institute. In addition to conventional liver cancer treatments, nutritional therapy is designed to provide cancer patients with healthy food options that will contribute to good health.
Teas
Green and black teas are a source of polyphenols, a group of antioxidants that might help prevent the division and metastasis of cancer cells. According to the Cancer Cure Foundation, dry green tea leaves are also beneficial, as 40 percent of their weight is accounted for with polyphenols. These antioxidants might specifically provide protection and prevention against lung, rectum, stomach, colon and liver cancers. Green tea provides more benefits over black tea, and both are superior to herbal teas, which show no effect in cancer protection.
Low-Fat Foods
People with liver cancer might experience symptoms such as nausea, digestive difficulty and abdominal distension from disease progression and/or treatments such as chemotherapy. A low-fat diet can help alleviate further gastrointestinal symptoms because foods high in fat are more difficult to digest and might over-load organs such as the liver and kidneys. Avoid high-fat meats heavy on butter, mayonnaise and ice cream in favor of lean meats such as chicken, fish and egg whites. Healthy sources of fats found in nuts, seeds, and olive and canola oils are permissible in moderation. Adhere to serving sizes and use fats sparingly in general.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are abundant in essential nutrients, including vitamins and minerals that aid in normal body function and strengthen the immune system. They are also a rich source of antioxidants, which protect against conditions such as heart disease and stroke, and many cancers, including cancers of the breast, colon and liver. Produce is also high in dietary fiber, which assists in smooth regulation of the digestive system for the elimination of waste products and toxins. Include a variety of fruits and vegetables for meals and snacks, including vitamin-C-rich strawberries and red bell peppers, and vitamin-A sources such as carrots, squash and cabbage.
Grits
According to the A.P. John Institute For Cancer Research, grits are a healthier breakfast choice vs. traditional cereals or whole-grain breads. Whole grains provide a solid source of vitamin B-6, a vitamin used by cancer cells to produce the amino acid glycine for DNA synthesis. Selecting grits might help inhibit cancer cells from developing new blood vessels as a result of DNA synthesis.
