Are You A Cancer Survivor? Then DON’T Do This (Cancer Prevention into Survivorship)
Cancer Prevention for Cancer Survivors
My work has me working with LOTS of cancer patients who are called to action because they were recently diagnosed and want to start a cancer prevention game plan. Many healthcare providers may not want cancer patients making lifestyle changes that could interact with cancer treatments but there’s a curious case to start one during treatment: habits take time to build. And new research is showing that cancer survivors are NOT the healthiest (and really do need to be).
Cancer survivors are not eating healthy. I, for one, place no blame on them. Cancer treatment, with all its never-ending appointments, is hard on the body, mind, and willpower! It takes courage to show up to treatments and the last thing you want to do is cook a healthy meal. Not to mention the ever-abundant processed and ultra-processed foods found in our supermarkets and even health food stores.
Cancer Survivors, Here’s Why Processed Foods Are NOT Your Ally
A recent study compared the dietary patterns of cancer survivors to those in the non-cancer group, and the study found:
- Sodium (salt) intake was 133% higher in cancer survivors than in the non-cancer group (average value)
- Saturated fat intake was 112% higher in survivors as compared to the non-cancer group
Processed and ultra-processed foods are known to increase inflammation in the body, a key driver of disease and cancer development. Focusing on cancer prevention in cancer survivors (i.e., preventing a secondary cancer) by focusing on healthy dietary eating patterns may increase the long term survival of this population.
In addition, dietary choices can impact cancer survivors’ chances of getting chronic health conditions (e.g., comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes) or treatment side effects. Our programs help cancer survivors understand the science behind the benefits of leafy green vegetables (a good source of vitamin K, which was low in the survivor group in this study) and vitamin D3 (also low in the survivor group) for preventing a recurring cancer, and how to start implementing these foods in their diet.
Inflammation from processed foods is NOT your ally in preventing a secondary cancer, so it’s best to steer clear of it by focusing on eating a wholesome healthy diet.
The Final Word
Thanks for reading this article, “Are You A Cancer Survivor? Then Here’s Your Cancer Prevention Game Plan,” in honor of National Cancer Prevention month. If you have any thoughts or comments, share them below. Schedule a complimentary 15-min call with me to get clear on what modern, science-based cancer prevention looks like.
FREE RESOURCES
Have more cancer prevention questions? We may have the answers in our free resources. Read or download them now:
1. Download the FREE eBook “HEALTHY FOOD SWAPS” if you’re ready to ditch processed and ultra-processed foods (which are linked to chronic inflammation) with healthier snack options. You’ll also get a list of healthy snacks according to weight and health goals (heart, brain focus, energy)
2. READ about the 10 foods that prevent cancer and our article on 6 Foods for Cancer Prevention
3. Read the article 4 Tips to Improve Breast Cancer Survival along with The Breast Cancer Diet that Increases Survival, then DOWNLOAD the FREE breast cancer survival kit that includes questions to ask your doctor, 8 tips to help lower your risk of a new or recurring breast cancer diagnosis, and 3 days of easy plant-based recipes.
4. Read the article Prevent a Colon Cancer Recurrence and The Optimal Colon Cancer Diet
ABOUT THE CANCER DETOX
Hi! I am Dee Grace Ph.D., scientist, author, and health coach based in Atlanta, Georgia. The Cancer Detox helps cancer patients, survivors, and those wanting to stay ahead of the curve prevent a new or recurring cancer with science-based health coaching.
Is the fear of cancer keeping you up at night? Is what you’re eating putting you at risk for cancer? What if you’re doing everything wrong and don’t even know it? Schedule a complimentary 15-min call with me to get clear on what modern, science-based cancer prevention looks like.
Purchase my book “Cancer Prevention: Diet and Lifestyle Factors that Reduce Your Risk” on Amazon. Pulling from over 100 science-based studies, I provide the case for why cancer isn’t always random and often preventable. You’ll get 24 Prevention Habits that hold you accountable for implementing a cancer prevention lifestyle. along with over 40 cancer prevention guidelines for fighting breast, lung, colon, and prostate cancers.
DISCLAIMER
The information in this article is for educational purposes and is not meant to treat, diagnose, or prescribe medications or herbs. For questions on the information contained in this article, please consult with your healthcare provider. This information is intended for educational purposes only, and you should consult with your healthcare provider and a licensed dietician or certified nutritionist for additional information related to the content of this article.
REFERENCES
Zhang FF, et al. Diet quality of cancer survivors and noncancer individuals: results from a national survey. Cancer. 2015;121:4212-4221.
