Nutritional Treatment for Lung Cancer

Nutritional Treatment for Lung Cancer

Overview

Lung cancer is a disease characterized by uncontrollable cell growth in tissues of the lungs. The most common cause of lung cancer is exposure to environmental toxins such as cigarette smoke. Symptoms include persistent cough, chest pain, wheezing, shortness of breath, fatigue and hoarseness. Dietary changes and nutritional supplementation play a supporting role in maximizing quality of life in lung cancer patients. Certain supplements are toxic in high doses, however, and you should consult with your healthcare practitioner before taking any new supplement.

Dietary Basics

According to the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, or CSNN, if you have lung cancer, you should avoid the consumption of trans fats, fried and greasy foods, salt, sugar, processed foods and alcohol. These foods are nutritionally empty, they promote inflammation, they stress the immune system and they may contribute to cancer cell growth. Phyllis Balch says in her book, "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," that a diet high in fresh fruits, vegetables and fiber is beneficial to lung cancer sufferers.

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Foods to Emphasize

The CSNN says to emphasize the cruciferous vegetables that include broccoli, cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, turnips and rutabagas, because they contain a substance called glucosinolates that may slow lung cancer progression. Foods that are high in beta-carotene and vitamin A are also beneficial to lung function and are encouraged. Good sources of these two nutrients include carrots, winter squash, pumpkin, dandelion greens, spinach, kale, collards, chard, apricots, peaches, cantaloupes, watercress, egg yolks, liver and kidney meat. Alternatively, vitamin A and beta carotene supplements may be taken. The CSNN warns, however, that clinical studies have noted an increase in lung cancer-related deaths in smokers who took beta-carotene supplements; therefore, smokers should not take this supplement.

Nutritional Supplements

Modified citrus pectin is a soluble fiber obtained from the peel and pulp of citrus fruit. The CSNN says that more research needs to be done, but it may inhibit the growth of cancer cells; taking 5 to 30 g of modified citrus pectin daily, in divided doses, is suggested. Also recommended is a mixed antioxidant formula, because antioxidants have a protective effect on the body's cells and may reduce cancer cell growth. For best results, choose a formula that contains a blend of vitamins C and E, selenium, lycopene, lutein and glutathione, because they are all thought to have a protective effect on lung tissue.

Amino Acids

Finally, amino acid therapy has been used since the 1960s as a holistic treatment for lung cancer. The A.P. John Institute for Cancer Research says that amino acids, which are the byproduct of protein, can help to reduce the rate of growth of cancer cells. The institute therefore recommends eating a diet high in protein-rich foods and taking a whey protein supplement daily.

http://www.livestrong.com/article/375993-nutritional-treatment-for-lung-cancer/

Foods Good for Lung Cancer

Overview

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Smoking is the major risk factor for a lung cancer. Therefore, quitting smoking reduces your risk for lung cancer dramatically, but it does not eliminate the risk. Besides smoking, there are other risk factors -- for example, asbestos and radon exposure. Certain foods can decrease or increase the risk for lung cancer. For people who have lung cancer and are undergoing treatments, proper nutrition can prolong life, improve quality of life and make treatment more effective.

Foods That Can Decrease the Risk of Lung Cancer

Some foods can, to a certain degree, protect against lung cancer. Fruits and vegetables can reduce lung cancer risk. In the August 31, 2010, issue of the "Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention," Frederike Buchner presented research findings suggesting that, "Independent from quantity of consumption, variety in fruit and vegetable consumption may decrease lung cancer risk." Carotenoid-containing foods, such as carrots, tomatoes, red peppers, peaches and sweet potatoes offer the most protection. Another anti-cancer food component comes from cruciferous vegetables. Therefore, it is wise to eat broccoli, cabbage and Brussels sprouts at least on a weekly basis.

Nutrition During Treatment for Lung Cancer

Good diet is essential for people with cancer. Proper nutrients provide the body with the strength to fight the cancer and side-effects of the treatment. Most important is to eat enough calories to maintain weight. Even overweight people should not lose weight while receiving treatment for lung cancer. Fat is the most calorie-dense nutrient; therefore, it is good to include more high-fat foods in the diet to increase caloric intake during the treatment. However, the most crucial nutrient in the lung cancer diet is protein. Try to include plenty of protein-rich foods with every meal and snack. Examples of foods high in protein are meats, poultry, dairy, beans, nuts and fish. In addition to protein, fish is a source of fish oil that can offer extra benefits. Research published in February 2011 in the journal "Cancer" reported that fish oil helps to preserve weight and muscle mass in patients with lung cancer and can make chemotherapy more effective. Foods such as milkshakes, ice-cream and puddings are low volume and high in both calories and protein, and can be substituted for a meal if you don't feel like eating. Drinking plenty of fluids is important to keep the body hydrated, especially during chemotherapy and radiation. Try to choose fluids with some additional calories and nutrients, such as juices and milk, instead of water.

Nutrition for Cancer Survivors After Treatment

After treatment and recovery, it is essential for cancer survivors to follow the recommendations for cancer prevention, including eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, sufficient amounts of protein and small-to-moderate amounts of healthy fat

http://www.livestrong.com/article/413488-foods-good-for-lung-cancer/