One of the most challenging brain tumors to treat, glioblastoma can be managed, and nutrition is an important part of maintaining health during cancer and its treatment. A vegan diet may be helpful for some individuals with this brain tumor, although it can be difficult to adhere to. Before adopting a vegan diet, talk with your treatment team about your diet and whether this is a change that will benefit you.
Glioblastoma
Glioblastoma, another name for glioblastoma multiforme, or GBM, is a cancerous brain tumor. It can also be referred to as a grade IV astrocytoma. According to the College of American Pathologists, it is the most commonly diagnosed primary brain tumor in adults. Removal of this tumor is hard, since it typically goes deep into the brain and spreads through the brain and nervous system quickly. Treatment depends on the size of the tumor and an individual's general health, but may include steroid medications, surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or placement of a shunt. Participation in clinical trials may also be an option.
Vegan Diet
A vegan diet is a type of vegetarian diet that is more restrictive than simply not eating meat. Vegans do not eat any animal by-products like eggs, honey and dairy products. Most do not use products like leather or wool. Due to the restrictive nature of a diet like this, it is important to consume enough calories and nutrients to be healthy. If you follow a vegan diet, talk with your doctor or a nutritionist to ensure you are getting the vitamins and minerals you need.
Veganism and Glioblastoma
A vegan diet emphasizes fruits and vegetables, along with other non-animal products, and according to a 2009 study by Il'yasova et al in "Cancer Causes and Control," this may help improve survival in individuals with glioblastoma. Patients with GBM who had a higher intake of antioxidants had a significantly higher survival rate than those with lower antioxidant intakes. More research needs to be done, but this is promising. Protein helps the body rebuild tissue, which is important during cancer treatment, so seek out vegan sources of protein like lentils, peanut butter, broccoli and potatoes. Drinking enough fluids helps keep your body hydrated, and every cell in your body needs water to function properly.
Considerations
A vegan diet will not cure glioblastoma, and it may not be for everyone due to its restrictive nature. During cancer and its treatment, it is important that you get enough calories and protein to repair and rebuild tissue that has been damaged from treatments like radiation and chemotherapy. Without proper nutrition, you may have a harder time recovering from treatments.
References
- College of American Pathologists; Brain Tumor:Glioblastoma; 2011
- The Vegetarian Resource Group; Veganism in a Nutshell; 2011
- "Cancer Causes and Control"; Total Dietary Antioxidant Index and Survival in Patients with Glioblastoma Multiforme; D Il'yasova et al; 2009
- American Cancer Society; Nutrition for the Person with Cancer During Treatment; August 2010
Member Comments