Why is nutrition important in cancer?
Good nutrition is a great weapon to help your body overcome cancer. Although cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy kill cancer cells, they can also make the immune system unable to fight against infections. Additionally, many patients experience eating problems such as loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, sore mouth, sore throat, diarrhoea, weight loss, etc. that can lead to malnutrition.
Eating the right kinds of food is important to boost immune function, reduce side effects and provide energy. For this reason, a healthy diet rich in proteins, energy and healthy fats is recommended. Here are some local Nigerian super foods that are rich in essential nutrients for better recovery.
Soy
Soy contains isoflavone, a natural substance which can be found in plants. Some studies show that it minimizes cancer risk in some individuals. As a Nigerian food, soy can be cooked or processed into soy milk and soybean cheese (wàrà/beske). Soy milk is beneficial for people who cannot properly digest milk from animal sources. Also, soybean cheese can replace processed and red meat in your daily meals.
Leafy greens
Dark leafy greens such as pumpkin leaf (ugwu), spinach and jute leaf are antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. This because they contain important chemicals such as carotenoids and vitamin C. Jute leaf soup is a common Nigerian soup taken with foods like wheat, rice or amala. Another great meal option is a high-fiber vegetable salad containing kale, cabbage and tomatoes, making up a healthy mix of cancer-fighting diet.
Cabbage
Cabbage is rich in glucosinolates which slow down tumour growth and promote cell death in the human body. Also, it contains sulforaphane, an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and detoxifying agent. Including cabbage in your meal plan can be a beneficial choice to promote recovery. Instead of salads, cabbage sauce can help make your meals more nourishing and enjoyable.
Whole grains
Whole grains are generally richer in fiber, phenolic acids and lignans than refined grains. They can limit tumour growth and reduce inflammation. Examples of whole grains include corn, millet, brown rice and wheat. Nigerian foods that are made with whole grains include corn moinmoin, boiled corn, pap (commonly known as ogi or akamu), wheat meal, etc.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in carotenoids, lycopene, vitamin A, Vitamin C, etc. Non-starchy vegetables like tomatoes may decrease the risk of cancers of the mouth, pharynx, nasopharynx, larynx, etc. Similarly, lycopene reduces the risk of prostate cancer. For good nutrition, consider tomato sauce made with olive oil to slow down the growth of cancer cells and decrease overall cancer risk.
Bonus:
Spices
Spices such as garlic, onions and turmeric are useful food additives for a good recovery. Apart from adding flavour to your sauces, stews and soups, these spices also boost the immune system and its functions.
Onions and garlic protect against cancers of the digestive tract. Also, turmeric contains curcumin which has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
Wondering what to eat today? Here are some food combinations to explore:
- Oats and soymilk
- Wheat and vegetable sauce
- Corn moinmoin (pudding) and pap.
- Vegetable Salad.
- Cabbage sauce with rice and fruit salad.
- Beans and corn pottage with banana.
- Turmeric rice with fish (salmon, tuna or sardine) and vegetable salad.
We want to hear your reviews on these food combinations. Which one have you eaten before? What will you try out next? Tell us all about it in the comment section.
