Every individual diagnosed with a brain tumor is considered a survivor. This is a process that continues through all stages, including initial diagnosis, through treatment and beyond. Brain tumors may be metastatic or benign and a doctor will individualize treatment plans since each person is affected by various physical, emotional and social factors. Nutrition is an essential component of a healthy individual's lifestyle and is equally important for brain tumor survivors. Proper nutrition can help combat symptoms from the disease and treatment, such as fatigue, diarrhea and constipation. Before lifestyle, diet and exercise regiment changes, consult your physician and dietitian.
Brain Tumor
Each individual diagnosed with a brain tumor is unique. Primary brain tumors originate in the brain, do not spread to other parts of the body and are benign. Metastatic brain tumors originated in another location in the body and spread to the brain, usually through blood. Symptoms such as headaches, nausea, fatigue, diarrhea and constipation may derive from the disease, treatment or both.
Protein and Fiber for Treatment
Whether treatment involves surgery, radiation or chemotherapy, it is important to maintain a healthy weight. Individuals underweight before undergoing surgery may need to eat a high-protein diet. Foods high in fiber can help with side effects of radiation, chemotherapy, and biological and hormone therapy, such as constipation and diarrhea. Add a spoonful of ground whole flaxseed to protein shakes, low-fat yogurt or oatmeal for a good source of fiber. An empty stomach can promote nausea, and these foods are often more easily digested.
Super Foods
Several foods containing phytonutrients, which are called "Super Foods," have shown to boost the immune system. These phytonutrients may also have the ability to fight tumor development. Some of the foods that contain these elements include green tea, soy milk, tofu, broccoli, cabbage, garlic and onions. Try to include these foods into your meal schedules. Nutritionists recommend eating fruits and vegetables in a rainbow of colors to maximize nutritional, vitamin and mineral content.
Hydration
Individuals undergoing radiation and chemotherapy treatment for brain tumors should drink plenty of fluids as side effects to treatment such as vomiting can increase susceptibility to dehydration. Drink at least 6 to 8 cups of water daily to avoid the loss of electrolytes and salts, which can make fatigue worse. Avoid caffeinated beverages. Herbal tea might serve beneficial as it does not contain caffeine, but avoid adding a lot of sugar. Carry around a bottle of water, Gatorade or Powerade for convenience.
Fat and Sugar
Avoid trans-fat, saturated fat, hydrogenated oils and refined sugars, which may increase tumor growth, suppress the immune system, and increase swelling and inflammation. However, "good fats," like omega-3s found in fish, may help chemotherapy effectiveness, decrease tumor growth, boost the immune system, and reduce swelling and inflammation. Eat fruits, which have a natural sweetness.
References
- "Nutritional Solutions"; National Brain Tumor Foundation: The Healing Power of Your Fork; Jeanne M. Wallace, PH.D., C.N.C.
- National Brain Tumor Society: The Essential Guide to Brain Tumors
- National Brain Tumor Society: Brain Tumor FAQ
- "Brain Science Foundation"; Brain Tumors and Fatigue; Nancy Conn-Levin, M.A.
- National Cancer Institute: Eating Hints
- "CancerCare"; Coping With Nausea and Vomiting From Chemotherapy; Richard J. Gralla, et al.; 2008
