Certain Foods May Help Mesothelioma Patients
It has often been said that there is a definitive link between cancer and lifestyle. Some experts believe that cancer – at least some types – could be avoided if individuals would practice better lifestyle habits, including regular exercise and the consumption of healthy foods, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and grains.
Doctors and scientists have spent decades examining the connection between food and cancer (and other illnesses as well). While these experts might disagree on particulars, for the most part they agree that certain foods contain the right vitamins, minerals, or plant phytochemicals to help prevent cancer or assist in fighting the disease. Some doctors have even devised specific “anti-cancer” diets that they distribute to their patients in hopes of fending off the disease or slowing its progress.
Some of the most common foods found on those diets, including those designed for mesothelioma patients, include:
Broccoli, cabbage, brussel sprouts, mustard greens, kale, and cauliflower – These so-called cruciferous vegetables contain three cancer-protective biochemicals including sulforaphane, which blocks enzymes that draw carcinogens into healthy cells.
Soy products – The photonutrients in soy inhibit the growth of new blood vessels necessary for tumor survival. Studies have shown, for example, that Japanese women who consume large amounts of soy are four times less likely to die of breast cancer than American women, who historically eat little soy.
Fish and flax oils - Omega 3 fatty acids, such as those found in oily fish and flax seeds, help produce the phytochemicals known to inhibit cancer. Salmon and tuna are great sources of these fatty acids and some cancer patients also take a tablespoon of flaxseed oil each day, which can be mixed in with salad dressing. Olives and olive oils are helpful as well.
Carrots, sweet potatoes, hard-shell squash (i.e. butternut, pumpkin) – Full of beta-carotene, these foods can block the growth of potentially-cancerous cells. Cancer patients or those trying to avoid the disease should eat about 25 mg. per day, much more than the average person usually consumes. Eating these beta carotene products with tomatoes provides an even bigger boost as the lycopene in the tomato enhances the absorption of beta carotene.
Mushrooms – White button mushrooms, the most common type, work at blocking aromatase, which is an enzyme that can promote the growth of cancer cells. Studies show they may be especially helpful for prostate cancer patients.
Foods High in Vitamin C - Vitamin C boosts the immune system by increasing the production of lymphocytes in the body, blocking the formation of nitrosamines, often found in processed meats. The best source of Vitamin C is fresh fruits and vegetables such as oranges, red berries, red and green bell peppers, kiwi, tomatoes, and spinach. High intake of Vitamin C is especially effective in preventing intestinal cancers.
