List of food items to eat and avoid in ovarian cancer
Ovarian cancer is a medical condition in which abnormal cells in the ovary begins to multiply excessively to form a tumor. The condition can be fatal if not treated in time, and while the primary form of treatment is surgery and procedures like chemotherapy, eating the right kind of food and having he right lifestyle also goes a long way in helping manage the condition. A well-balanced diet is important to keep the body healthy. If you are suffering from ovarian cancer, there are certain foods that will help in dealing with this medical condition and there are certain foods that should be totally avoided. This article talks about the kind of foods to eat and the kind of foods to avoid for ovarian cancer patients.
Foods to eat
It is recommended to consult a dietician and the primary healthcare provider before going on any sort of diet plan. The following food items can be included in most diet charts for patients suffering from ovarian cancer.
- Eggs
- Cheese
- Milk
- Unsalted Nuts
- Fruits
- Vegetables like cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli
- Whole-grains
- Fish
- Blueberries
Milk can be part of a well-balanced diet for patients with ovarian cancer. As it is a great source of nutrition, it should be consumed in recommended doses. Supplements of selenium, iron and vitamin C can also be included in the diet, but after consultation with the doctor. With the treatments and medications, one may lose their appetite, but it is important to remember that it is necessary to eat a balanced and nutritious diet for a full recovery.
Foods to Avoid
The following food items may hamper one’s recovery by aggravating the symptoms of ovarian cancer and must be avoided.
- Fried food items
- Excessive salt
- Alcohol
- Sweetened carbonated beverages
- Caffeinated drinks
Along with the food to eat and avoid for ovarian cancer, one must pay attention to the tips mentioned below as these will help speed the recovery process.
- Eat 6 to 8 times a day
- The meals should be in small portions
- Keep yourself hydrated through the day
- Have drinks that are high in calories like hot chocolate and fruit juices
- Milkshakes are a good option
Your diet plan should be executed depending on the type of treatments that you are undergoing. Even after the treatment is over and a patient is cured of ovarian cancer, the diet plays an important role. The patient continues to need to get proper nutritional levels to keep up with the prolonged effects of treatment procedures such as surgery and radiation. Along with the above-mentioned food to eat and avoid for ovarian cancer, the patient can undertake complementary therapies like meditation, massage, yoga, reiki, and music therapy. This will help them be relaxed, mentally strong, and relaxed. More importantly, it will help them not feel hapless in the face of adversity, which is a huge part of any recovery process.