Lung cancer is caused when the cells of lung tissues grow uncontrollably and form tumors. Lung cancer ranks as the second most common disease and causes the most cancer deaths in U.S. A loss of appetite is common in cancer patients, especially among those undergoing chemotherapy. However, getting the required nutrition can help patients stay strong and retain energy in the body.
Fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables, some of which are referred to as healing foods, should be an essential part of your diet. They are rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants eliminate the chain reaction that produces free radicals in the body. They can even help in preventing the disease.
Green tea, garlic, onions, tomatoes, soy, broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage are high in antioxidants and should form a part of your regular diet.
Green tea is a rich source of antioxidant chemicals. It is believed to be 500 times as effective as vitamin C. Garlic and onions can help limit the production of cancer-causing chemicals. Tomatoes, meanwhile, contain antioxidants called lycopene. Fruits such as watermelon and papaya also contain lycopene. Lycopene helps prevent some types of cancer. Green leafy vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage contain sulforaphane, which boosts production of Phase II enzymes. These enzymes remove carcinogens from cells.
Healthy fats
The body requires fat to function. Healthy fats and oils help regulate the nervous system. They help regulate blood pressure, heart rate and blood vessel constriction as well as blood clotting. The body benefits in many ways if you consume food containing fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E and K.
Healthy fats include olive oil, flaxseed oil and essential fatty acids such as Omega-3. Essential fatty acids aid in preventing the growth of cancer cells. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in salmon, shrimp, walnuts and raw tofu. They are also available as pills.
Eating the right food and obtaining right nutrients is important to help fight lung cancer. Care should be taken to ensure that a lung cancer patient gets a well-balanced diet, especially one that comprises all of the foods mentioned above. It is wise to consult your doctor before starting any diet or exercise.
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