Juicing, or the liquefying fruits and vegetables in a blender, can be a way to prepare a nutrition-packed meal substitute, and it can be a complementary therapy for cancer. Many cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy, radiation and surgery can have problems tasting and swallowing foods and maintaining a healthy appetite. The nutritional benefits of juicing, paired with the robust flavors, can make eating a better experience and help a patient get the nourishment he needs. However, not all ingredients are safe for cancer patients. Diet and restrictions must be discussed with the attending oncologist, nurse or nutritionist before juicing begins, as cancers can thrive on certain fresh foods.
Anti-oxidant Benefits
To prevent cancer or its recurrence some oncologists recommend getting extra anti-oxidants. Anti-oxidants are vitamins that defend the body against free-radical damage. Fresh fruit and vegetable juices can be nutrient-dense sources of beta carotene, lycopene and vitamins A, C and E. The National Cancer Institute posits that these vitamins can not only curtail disease development, but also improve strength and stamina. It should be noted that some cancers thrive with anti-oxidant therapy. Again, consultation with the team nutritionist is important.
Enzymes
Enzymes are protein molecules found in fruits and vegetables that help the body process food and eliminate toxins. When food is cooked, it can lose the effectiveness and benefits provided by natural enzymes. Taken in raw form, these enzymes break down in digestion, but the benefits remain. the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center says that those who are neutropenic, or with very low infection resistance, and those who have an otherwise compromised immune system should avoid eating raw foods until their risk of infection decreases.
Phytonutrients
Phytonutrients are chemicals that occur naturally in fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts and tea leaves. The U.S. Department of Agriculture refers to these phytonutrients as carotenoids, flavinoids and isoflavones, inositol, phosphates, lignans, isothiocyanates and indoles, phenols and cyclic compounds, saponins, sulfides and thiols, and terpenes. They are powerful anti-oxidants, mimic estrogen, aid in cellular processes and repair damage to DNA by free radicals in chemotherapy. Phytonutrients are only recommended as allowed by the attending oncologist.
Nutritional Supplements
Powdered or liquid nutritional supplements such as Beneprotein, Benecalorie, Ensure and Resource Thicken-Up are often added to the food or drink of cancer patients. They deliver specific nutrients, depending on the formula, based on nutritional and caloric requirements, ability to swallow and type of cancer. According to Nestle Nutrition, a main purveyor of medical nutritional supplement products, a product such as Beneprotein can be added to juices to deliver extra nutritional benefits without altering taste or flavor. This may be a viable option when appetite or ability to swallow food is impaired. The team nurse or nutritionist can help determine a formula for each stage of treatment and recovery.
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