Cancer Prevention and Treatment through Nutrition
In the fight against cancer, good nutrition is crucial. According to the American Cancer Society, healthy eating habits combined with other factors (maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active and limiting alcohol consumption) could reduce deaths in the United States by as much as 30 percent.
Adopting a healthier diet is one of the best ways to prevent cancer. While there is no single food or food substance that can protect you against cancer, the right combination of foods, exercise and regular cancer screenings can significantly reduce your cancer risk.
Nutrition for prevention
A cancer-fighting strategy includes eating a balance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans and maintaining a diet high in fiber, rich in antioxidants and low in fat.
Cancer-Fighting Foods Include: |
- Avocados
- Garlic, onions
- Carrots
- Grapefruits
- Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, brussel sprouts
- Flax
- Soy
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Foods And Ingredients To Avoid Include: |
- Sodium
- Hydrogenated oils
- Refined carbohydrates
- Soda
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Nutrition for treatment
A healthy diet is important to prevent cancer, and also to treat patients with cancer. Cancer treatments and side effects may alter taste and appetite, as well as the ability to tolerate certain foods and obtain proper nutrients.
Nutritional counseling is an important part of the cancer treatment programs at the Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania and the Joan Karnell Cancer Center at Pennsylvania Hospital. These programs are available to help patients maintain their physical well-being during and after cancer treatment.
A well-balanced plan can improve tolerance and response to therapy, as well as promote and sustain recovery.
Our Dieticians Can: |
- Evaluate your nutritional status
- Review personal nutrition practices
- Provide guidance on diet and nutrition therapies
- Offer suggestions to improve nutrition
- Create individualized nutrition plans
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The Joan Karnell Cancer Center offers a variety of recipes that incorporate cancer-fighting foods that are beneficial for both patients with cancer and people looking to adopt a healthier diet. Cooking programs are also offered throughout the year. For more information, visit the Joan Karnell Cancer Center.
To learn more about Penn’s comprehensive cancer services or to schedule an appointment with a cancer specialist, visit Penn Cancer Services.
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