Foods to Avoid With Lung Cancer

Foods to Avoid with Lung Cancer: A Casual Guide to Eating Right

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with lung cancer, you might feel overwhelmed by a plethora of new information to process. One thing that can aid your overall health is making the right food choices. Although no magic food cures cancer, certain foods can significantly impact how you feel and assist you in maintaining strength throughout treatment. However, on the flip side, foods can hinder your health or treatment; thus, it’s crucial to identify which ones to avoid. In this blog, we’ll discuss some foods that are best kept off your plate (if you’re dealing with lung cancer). It’s all about keeping your body fueled and helping it perform its best while you navigate this journey. Let’s dive into the world of foods to avoid with lung cancer!

Processed Meats

Processed meats (such as bacon, sausages, hot dogs, and deli meats) are filled with preservatives, sodium, and unhealthy fats and they can negatively impact your immune system and overall health. There’s also some research suggesting a connection between processed meats and an increased risk of cancer. Thus, it's wise to limit or avoid them, especially when you’re dealing with lung cancer as they top the list of foods to avoid with lung cancer.

Excessive Salt (Sodium)

While a little salt can enhance food's flavor, too much sodium can lead to fluid retention, raise blood pressure, and make you feel bloated or sluggish. This is especially important when your body is already under stress from cancer and treatment. If you're undergoing chemotherapy, you may also be more sensitive to changes in sodium levels; therefore, it is crucial to monitor how much salt you consume.

Foods to watch out for:

Canned soups (be sure to check the labels, as they often contain high sodium); and packaged snacks (such as chips, pretzels, and salted nuts) can be convenient options. However, one must be cautious when consuming these items, because they may contribute to health issues. Although they are appealing, moderation is key.

Fast food (it’s often loaded with sodium)

Frozen meals (which often contain significant amounts of added salt) can be a challenge. Instead of salt, consider using herbs, spices, and citrus to enhance flavors in your meals. You’ll be amazed at how delicious (and nutritious) food can taste without relying on excess sodium. Although this may require some experimentation, the results are worth it.

Fried and Greasy Foods

Fried foods (although they might taste great) are high in unhealthy fats; this can be tough on your digestive system (especially if you're undergoing cancer treatment). These foods can leave you feeling heavy, and uncomfortable and may increase inflammation in your body. This is the last thing you want when fighting cancer because it complicates the situation further. That is why, fried foods also feature in the list of foods to avoid with lung cancer.

Examples:

• French fries
• Fried chicken
• Onion rings

Sugar-Filled Foods and Drinks

Cancer cells (as it turns out) thrive on sugar; feeding them sugary foods (and beverages) might not do you any favors. Excessive sugar consumption can also lead to weight gain, lower energy levels, and weakened immunity—none of which are helpful when your body is fighting cancer. However, sugar can contribute to inflammation, which is something you want to keep in check (because this can exacerbate the situation).

Foods and drinks to limit or avoid:

In place of sugary drinks, consider water, herbal teas, or flavored water with lemon or cucumber. For a sweet treat, however, you might try fresh fruit or even small servings of dark chocolate, because this can satisfy your cravings without excessive sugar. Although many people enjoy traditional sweet options, some alternatives are equally enjoyable.

Sweets (such as cakes, cookies, and candies) are often considered indulgent treats. However, they can also evoke nostalgia (for many individuals), because they remind us of cherished moments. Although some may argue that desserts are unnecessary, their presence at celebrations (and gatherings) is undeniable. This enjoyment can lead to both pleasure and, at times, guilt (for those who indulge too much). But, it is essential to appreciate these confections in moderation, as they hold a special place in our culture.

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol (isn’t) the best choice if you’re fighting cancer; however, it’s especially important to avoid it while undergoing treatment (like chemotherapy or radiation). Alcohol can interfere with your medications (and) potentially weaken your immune system. Plus, it may irritate your mouth and throat, which makes it harder to eat and stay nourished. If you’ve been drinking regularly, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about cutting back or eliminating alcohol during your treatment period (because this may help).

Diet Habits to Adopt for Preventing Lung Cancer

The above paragraphs have talked in length about foods to avoid with lung cancer, now, let’s focus our attention on foods that may help prevent lung cancer.

Leafy Greens & Cruciferous Veggies

If there’s one thing (your lungs) love, it’s green goodness! Spinach, kale, broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts are packed with antioxidants and fiber that help flush out toxins and keep lung cells healthy. Cruciferous veggies (in particular) contain compounds that may fight cancer cells—so load up (your plate)! However, you should also consider other foods because variety is essential for optimal health. This is vital because it ensures you receive a broad spectrum of nutrients, thus enhancing your overall well-being.

Berries: Nature’s Candy

Strawberries (or blueberries, or raspberries)—whatever your favorite maybe—these little powerhouses are rich in antioxidants that protect lung tissue from damage. They help reduce inflammation; this is a big plus for overall lung health, however, some might argue that other fruits (like apples or oranges) can be beneficial too, but not in the same way. Although they are small, their impact on health is significant, because of the nutrients they contain.

Tomatoes for the Win

Tomatoes are full of lycopene; a powerful antioxidant that helps improve lung function. They’re great in salads, sauces, or even roasted (with a little olive oil) for extra goodness; however, some might prefer them raw. Although they can be versatile, not everyone enjoys their taste because of their acidity. This is why people often have mixed opinions about them.

Fatty Fish for Healthy Fats

Salmon, sardines, and mackerel are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids; these combat inflammation and may reduce the risk of lung-related diseases. However, if you’re not a fan of fish, flaxseeds and walnuts present great plant-based alternatives. Although they differ in taste, their nutritional value remains significant because of their beneficial properties.

Garlic & Onions: Stinky but Super

These might not be great for your breath; however, they’re amazing for your lungs! Garlic and onions possess anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties that help keep lung cells in top shape. Plus, they’re also great for your immune system (because) this contributes to overall health!

Green Tea: Sip for Lung Strength

Green tea (which is rich in antioxidants) helps reduce cell damage and may even slow the growth of cancer cells; however, many people still prefer soda. Although it may be difficult to change habits, swapping your soda for a cup of green tea can be beneficial. This choice could lead to improved lung health (because your lungs will thank you).

Oranges & Citrus Fruits

Vitamin C-rich foods (such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits) help to boost your immune system; however, they also support lung health. They assist your body in better absorbing iron (which is essential for oxygen transport) because this process is crucial for overall well-being.

Final Thoughts

Living with lung cancer (and undergoing treatment) is no easy feat; however, the right foods can help keep your body strong and supported. Every cancer journey is different: what works for one person might not be the best for another. But with these tips in mind, you'll be on the right track to eating in a way that supports your health and helps you feel better throughout your treatment. Stay strong (and remember that every healthy choice you make counts)! If you desire an Ayurvedic lung cancer treatment, then visiting Karma Ayurveda can be a great option. It is the best Ayurvedic hospital in India with multiple branches all over the country. The hospital also offers healing therapies to heal the patients from within and eventually helping with the lung cancer symptoms.