Food For Fuel

Essential Nutrients

Carbohydrates

Helping fight fatigue, poor mental function, and muscle cramps, carbohydrates (including complex carbohydrates) are found fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and grains. 

Fats

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) are well-tolerated by many cancer patients. They are also the healthiest fats on the planet. Types of foods that are strong in MUFAs include avocados, canola oil, nuts, olives (and olive oil), peanut butter, and peanut oil.

Proteins

Essential for a healthy immune system, cell growth, and cell repair, protein assists in recovery from cancer treatments and the disease itself. However, cancer and its treatment can make it difficult to consume enough protein, as loss of appetite is common among cancer patients. Cancer itself can cause changes in protein metabolism, which can lead to loss of muscle mass. Without protein and muscle mass, the body becomes susceptible to infection, wounds (from surgery) take longer to heal, and it may prolong recovery. Doctors recommend incorporating protein-rich foods like dairy products, dried beans, eggs, fish, lentils, nuts and nut butters, peas, and poultry into the diet of mesothelioma and cancer patients.

Vitamins and Minerals

Important for cell and tissue growth, metabolism, immune system health, and more, vitamins and minerals are critical to overall health. However, medical professionals warn that high doses of vitamin and mineral supplements may decrease the effectiveness of cancer and mesothelioma treatments. For example, research shows that vitamins A, C, and E, and selenium may repair the damage done to cancer cells during treatment; however, vitamin and mineral supplements may interact with chemotherapy agents, which can decrease the effectiveness of chemotherapy medications.

Water

Essential to every function in the body, water is especially important for cancer patients at all stages of treatment and recovery. Consuming water offers the body the following benefits:

• Helps nutrients travel between organs and cells
• Regulates body temperature
• Keeps the body hydrated
• Aids digestion
• Helps the body expel waste
• Protects the joints and tissues 

Water is almost always listed as a remedy for just about every side effect of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery for cancer patients, as they typically can tolerate water.  For some, getting an adequate amount of water may require intravenous fluids. To help combat treatment side effects and for overall good health, drink 8 to 10 eight-ounce cups of water every day. Although pure water is often the healthiest choice, cancer patients can still reach the recommended daily amount by drinking other clear liquids such as club soda, seltzer, decaf tea, clear soups and broths, gelatin, popsicles, or clear fruit juices.