Best Diet And Lifestyle Habits For Breast Cancer Patients

Breast cancer patients often need to follow a diet that is different from what is considered healthy for the rest of the population. They need to eat to maintain energy and overcome the side effects of treatment. When health is good, eating enough is usually not a problem. However, faced with cancer and the corresponding treatment, this can be a real challenge. That’s why today we’ll explain what the diet of breast cancer patients should be like after breast cancer treatment in India.

Food list for Breast Cancer Patients

Vegetables and fruits: Atleast 5 servings of vegetables and fruits per day are recommended for patients by some of the best breast cancer doctors in Delhi. If patients are not undergoing chemotherapy, they can consume raw fruits and vegetables. However, if they are undergoing chemotherapy and have entered a state of neutropenia (low immunity), they should only consume cooked food.

Whole grains: Breast cancer patients need to provide their bodies with 25-30 grams of fibre per day. According to a study in China, high fibre intakes may have a beneficial effect by altering the hormonal actions of breast cancer and other hormone-dependent cancers. Thus, unprocessed foods high in complex carbohydrates, fibre, phytochemicals, vitamins, and minerals should definitely be consumed.

Lean protein (including Soy): Patients need to increase their protein intake by eating more poultry, fish, and legumes like beans and lentils and reduce their consumption of cured, pickled, and smoked foods. 1-2 servings per day of whole soy foods (such as tofu, edamame, and soy milk) can also be included in moderate amounts.

Garlic: Allicin present in garlic, a beneficial compound for the treatment of cancer, has been shown to be effective in inhibiting the growth of tumor cells, especially in the breast. Preferably consume 1 garlic per day in crushed form as in this state it releases more allicin.

Red onion: Red onion helps the kidneys filter out toxins and blood, giving the patient better mood and oxygenation. In addition to being rich in quercetin, an antioxidant that does not disrupt chemotherapy and helps cancer cells not develop again. Furthermore, Best breast cancer doctor in Delhi recommends consuming 1/4 cup of red onion per day.

Diet in Cases of Side Effects

If a person is undergoing treatment and has certain side effects, dietary changes along with other factors can help improve their lifestyle and well being. Some of the common side effects associated with breast cancer are as follows.

Nausea: If a patient has nausea, some of the best breast cancer doctors in Delhi advise people to eat more foods that are cool or at room temperature since they do not have a strong odour. It may also be beneficial to eat lower-fat foods because fats take longer to digest. Concentrating on small bits and pieces of food instead of skipping meals altogether is the way to go. Moreover, avoiding strong flavours and intake of ginger roots helps a nauseated stomach.

Constipation: If constipation becomes a problem, after a patient’s breast cancer treatment in India, dieticians advise patients to eat more fiber-rich foods and drink more fluids. Low-intensity walking and warm beverages can also aid in the promotion of regular bowel movements.

Fatigue: Choose high-protein snacks and small frequent meals over large meals to combat fatigue. Patients often feel more tired when they aren’t eating well or are losing weight during treatment.

If patients have any side effects that interfere with their ability to eat regularly, they must ask their doctors  if they can meet with a dietitian to review individualised nutrition recommendations.

Lifestyle Habits in Addition to Dietary Changes

Keep a healthy weight:  Depending on the type of breast cancer treatment received, patients may gain or lose weight. Maintaining a healthy weight during treatment is recommended in order to avoid excessive weight gain or loss. Strict dieting is not advised during treatment. 

Eat small meals and portions at regular intervals: Throughout the day, eat small, frequent meals to ensure that the body gets enough calories, protein, and nutrients to tolerate treatment. Smaller meals may also aid in the reduction of treatment-related side effects like nausea. Try eating 5-6 small or “mini” meals every 3 hours.

Always choose healthy fat sources: Foods that are fried, greasy, or fatty should be avoided. Some of the best breast cancer doctors in Delhi recommend choosing baked or broiled foods. Moreover, nuts, seeds, olive oil and avocados are some healthy options.

Limit the intake of sweets and added sugars: Desserts and sweets, which are high in added sugars, provide little nutritional benefit and frequently take the place of healthier foods in your diet and hence must be avoided. 

Hydration is a must: It is critical to drink plenty of fluids while undergoing Breast Cancer treatment in India to avoid dehydration. Also, it is important to note that caffeinated beverages should be consumed in moderation as caffeine overdose can cause dehydration.

Food safety and good habits to be followed: While preparing food, wash your hands frequently. Separate knives and cutting boards should be used for raw meat and raw vegetables. Also, cook all foods to the proper temperature and store leftovers in the refrigerator as soon as possible.

Breast cancer can take a toll on a person’s body and it is imperative that patients seek the help of the best, like Dr. Manish Singhal. At Cancer Consult of India, we provide our patients with the best doctors in order to help provide the perfect guidance and expertise required before, during and after treatment.