Nutrition and Lung Cancer

Over the past decade, traditional science and Western medical researchers have begun to take a far more serious look at complementary and alternative medicine. Nutrition and nutritional therapies are coming under close scrutiny as research scientists uncover close links between diet and particular medical conditions, as well as overall health. While no one suggests that you walk away from all the traditional medical treatments for lung cancer, many cancer treatment centers also offer complementary medical treatment and consultation on nutrition, and nearly every doctor will agree that a healthy diet during treatment is important. A healthy diet will not only improve your quality of life during treatment; by keeping your strength up and providing your body with the nutrients it needs for all of its demands, you’re improving the outcome of the treatments you’re receiving.

That said, there are specific recommendations made by nutritionists in reference to lung cancer.

· your broccoli.
Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, kale and turnips contain a phytochemical that seems to provide protection against lung cancer. According to a research letter published in Lancet in October 2005, eating a serving of cruciferous vegetables at least twice a week has a preventive effect on lung cancer. Other scientists who are studying the chemical are finding that it inhibits cell replication in several lung cancer strains and induces cell death in cancer cells. Since the major difference between normal cells and cancerous cells is that cancerous cells do not die and keep replicating themselves, this could be major news for those with lung cancer. Until those findings are confirmed or denied, there’s certainly no reason NOT to acquire a taste for broccoli and cabbage.

· Eat plenty of veggies.
The American Cancer Society recommends eating at least five servings of fruit and vegetables per day to help reduce the risk of lung cancer.

· Drink green tea.
Several population based studies have shown that men who drink 5 or more cups of green tea daily not only have a lower risk of developing lung cancer, those that do develop it, tend to develop it several years later than men who don’t drink green tea. The effect may be due to the antioxidant properties of green tea.

· Do the berries.
Blueberries and other dark berries contain phytochemicals that have shown an inhibitory effect on lung cancer strains. They also contain lots of antioxidants that can help prevent damage to cells. Add blueberries, blackberries and raspberries to your diet by sprinkling them on cereal, or drinking them in juice along with pomegranate.

· Eat whole grains instead of processed foods.
There are more antioxidants and nutritional value in whole grains than in foods that have been processed. Switch out your refined bread and pasta products for whole grain bread with nuts and seeds to add vital nutrients – particularly coenzymes and fatty acids – to your diet.

In addition to eating a healthier diet, try to ensure adequate rest and physical activity. People who maintain their physical activity and eat a healthy diet have a much better chance of successfully completing treatment for lung cancer.