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Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Guest Post: Cancer Nutrition

Hello, everyone.  I hope you all have had a wonderful and prosperous first half of 2012!

I must first apologize for my lengthy absence.  As is sometimes the case, life gets in the way and we are not able to stay on top of all the projects about which we are so passionate.  In my case, I was working in an out-of-town location with very limited internet access.  Please accept my apologies and let us move on with the task at hand.

About a month ago I received an e-mail from a very passionate young lady.  She mentioned to me that she had recently stumbled across the blog and asked if I allowed guest posts.  I had honestly never considered it before but figured it would be a wonderful way to encourage others to comment, post, and discuss the benefits of healthy eating.  She has since sent me a short article that she has written about "how beneficial eating healthy and living a healthy lifestyle is for someone going through the battle of cancer".  This is a subject that is near and dear to my heart in many ways so I was happy to oblige.  Remember, there is a great deal of research on this topic and this is only a drop in the ocean of what can be learned.  I strongly encourage everyone to do their own research and please feel free to bring your findings to this open forum so that we all might benefit.  I will be doing the same and plan on adding a plethora of information as well.  As always, thank you for reading, tell your friends, become a Follower, and Comment!

***Please keep in mind that this article was written by someone who is trying to help and educate us all.  I encourage you to comment and discuss but I ask you to show respect to the author.  Thanks!***

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Superfruits and Other Tips for Cancer Nutrition

Due to the prevalence of cancer today, a lot of people find it hard to trust the foods that most people consume in fear of their association with cancer. Unfortunately, the best-tasting foods are not always the most nutritious ones, and some can do the body more harm than good.

While foods may not directly cause cancer, they can certainly contribute to its development and progression. On the other hand, some foods may prevent certain cancers or alleviate symptoms and side effects as they fight the disease.

Superfruits and Cancer

Superfruits are good examples. Superfruits are powerhouse fruits that combine important nutrients, antioxidants and great taste for excellent health benefits. Some superfruits are common everywhere, while others are specific to certain parts of the world.

Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber are common nutrients in all superfruits. A few of these foods are especially advantageous for their cancer-fighting properties. Acai berry, avocado, blueberry, dragonfruit, grapes, mango and pomegranate are some of the best anti-cancer fruits around.

Superfruits and other healthy foods are not a cure-all for cancer, whether it is mesothelioma, breast cancer or any other type. However, cancer patients can certainly benefit from eating a diet rich in these types of foods. Healthy eating has benefits for all patients, whether they are going through cancer treatment or a time of remission.

Energy Balance and Cancer

A healthy diet is a crucial component of energy balance, says the National Cancer Institute (NCI). As one of the United States National Institutes of Health, the NCI has conducted extensive research on energy balance and how it affects the lives of cancer patients. Along with body weight, body composition and exercise, diet may alter the cancer process for good or bad. A healthy diet helps people feel better, even during cancer, and improves quality of life.

According to researchers, the best foods for preventing and fighting cancer are plant-based foods: fruits and superfruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and nuts. Plants have less fat that animal-based foods. Additionally, they contain more fiber and cancer-fighting agents. These three nutritional components work together to support immune system functioning to fight cancer, illness and infection.

Of course, people with different cancers have different nutritional requirements. Nutrition for mesothelioma patients may look different from that of breast cancer or pancreatic cancer. Doctors, dietitians and other members of a cancer care team can work with patients to develop a healthy diet that meets their nutritional needs.