A healthy diet is important at any stage of life, but for women undergoing or recovering from breast cancer treatment, creating the right diet plan plays a vital role. During this process, nutrition not only fulfills daily energy needs, but also supports the body to respond to treatment in a stronger and more resilient way.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide. Adopting healthy eating habits during and after the treatment process can improve the overall quality of life of patients, strengthen the immune system and positively influence the response to treatment.
Breast Cancer and the Importance of a Healthy Diet
During breast cancer treatment, the body requires more energy and nutrients than usual to support the healing process and resist treatment. A balanced diet during this period provides significant physical and mental benefits to patients. A healthy diet during treatment can alleviate treatment-related side effects, maintain energy levels and help stabilize body weight.
Treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy can often cause side effects such as loss of appetite, nausea and mouth sores. This can make it difficult for patients to get enough nutrients. However, some nutritional strategies can be used to overcome these difficulties
During and after treatment, the body requires more nutrients from certain food groups due to the energy expenditure. However, undesirable conditions such as loss of appetite and weight loss are also common challenges. Eating meals at regular intervals and in appropriate amounts ensures that the body gets the nutrients it needs. Adequate calorie and protein intake helps the body to recover lost energy. Especially vegetable proteins and healthy fats should be an important part of the diet.
Foods to be Consumed in Breast Cancer
The number, timing and portion sizes of daily meals should be determined individually; instead of foods containing trans fats, fast food and processed foods, foods high in fiber, containing plenty of vegetables and fruits and prepared with healthy fats should be preferred. Vegetables and fruits support health by providing high amounts of vitamins, minerals and fiber. Whole grains help balance blood sugar, while foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, such as walnuts, salmon and flaxseed, can slow the growth of cancer cells and strengthen the immune system.
In addition, some nutrients are known to be effective in fighting cancer:
- Antioxidants: Vegetables such as broccoli, kale and spinach.
- Phytochemicals: Green tea, turmeric and red grapes.
- Probiotics: Fermented foods such as yogurt and kefir are rich sources of probiotics.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin C and D in particular support the immune system.
Processed foods, sugar and alcohol are the main foods to be avoided by individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment. Processed foods contain high amounts of additives, while excessive sugar consumption can raise blood sugar levels, increase inflammation and raise insulin levels, which can cause cancer cells to grow. Therefore, a low-sugar diet should be preferred. Also, alcohol has been scientifically proven to increase the risk of breast cancer.
Green tea is rich in polyphenols and can slow the growth of cancer cells. Aim to get vitamins and minerals from natural sources instead of supplements. Individuals who eat less can prefer foods with high energy density, such as walnuts and almonds. Salt consumption can be better controlled with meals prepared at home instead of eating out. Vegetable protein sources such as lentils, chickpeas and beans are recommended, while lean meat options such as chicken, turkey and fish can be consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Beware of Obesity!
It should also be remembered that obesity is a major risk factor for all types of cancer. Therefore, just as every woman should take precautions against obesity, it is very important for women who are undergoing breast cancer treatment or who have survived this disease to avoid obesity and take the necessary steps in this regard. It is even more important to be careful at every stage, from the choice of ingredients to the storage conditions, cooking methods and portion sizes of the foods to be consumed.
