An article brought to you by Dara Kurtz. Dara is a breast cancer survivor and provides Survivor Mentorship & Support at Cancer Services.
This month, in our Empowered Living series, we’re focusing on nutrition.
After a cancer diagnosis, it’s a good idea to take the time to review your diet and identify areas where you might be able to improve.
We know it can sometimes be confusing to figure out what you should and shouldn’t eat. Often, there’s conflicting advice, making it difficult to know which information is trustworthy and science-backed. Don’t worry, below, we’re going to clear the noise and answer the most common questions cancer patients and survivors often ask about what they should and shouldn’t eat. We want you to make choices that are best for you, from a place of confidence.
At Cancer Services, we’re especially lucky to have Julie Lanford, MPH, RD, CSO, LDN, serve as our Cancer Dietitian and expert. Find all her information, including recipes and recorded webinars at CancerDietitian.com.
Below are some of the most common questions Julie is often asked, along with answers you can trust:
Does eating sugar cause cancer?
The short answer is “no.” Eating sugar does not cause cancer. All cells in your body use glucose (a form of sugar) for energy. While cancer cells do consume glucose, eating sugar doesn’t feed cancer in a way that makes it grow faster. We know that patterns of eating that include a lot of added sugars can contribute to chronic inflammation, and excess weight gain, which can be associated with a higher risk of certain cancers.
Pay attention to labels, as many products contain more added sugar than you might expect. Do your best to limit your overall added sugar intake and focus on whole, real, nourishing foods.
Read more here: Does Sugar Feed Cancer?
Are soy products bad for hormone related cancer diagnoses?
Since some cancers are hormone-sensitive, and soy contains phytoestrogens (which are plant compounds that have a similar structure to human estrogen) it can be very confusing. However, current research shows that moderate amounts of whole soy foods are safe and may even be protective. Foods such as tofu, edamame, tempeh, and soy milk are very different from processed soy products, supplements, and powders. Try to limit your intake of processed soy and focus on whole soy foods.
Click here for Julie’s March Myth Busting article about Soy & Cancer
Click here for a Printable Handout on Is Soy Bad for Breast Cancer Survivors?
Should you avoid dairy?
Avoiding dairy is not necessary, though if you don’t tolerate it, or prefer not to eat it, you can meet your body’s nutrition needs without it.
Dairy foods contain protein, calcium, and vitamin D, nutrients that many cancer patients and survivors need. Try to eat lower-fat options to reduce your overall saturated fat intake. Foods such as yogurt, Kefir, and other fermented dairy products can support gut health.
If you choose to avoid dairy products, make sure that your other foods are meeting nutrient needs for protein, calcium and vitamin D.
Do I need to purchase only organic foods?
Eating conventional fruits and vegetables is far better than avoiding produce altogether, and the benefits of eating a variety of colorful plant foods far outweigh the potential risks from pesticides. Consuming organic versions of foods is not necessary for good health. Consuming enough fruits, veggies and other plants is necessary for good health, regardless of whether they are organic or not. If organic fits your budget and makes you feel better, go for it.
Check out Julie’s Webinar on Organic vs. Conventional HERE!
Is there a magic food?
Sadly, there isn’t a magic food that can prevent a recurrence. Remember, health is shaped by patterns, not one ingredient. Try to eat a balanced plate that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, and try to drink plenty of water.
Check out Julie’s Webinar on Nutrition After Cancer – What to Eat: What to Avoid!
Click Here to Sign up for our Survivor Diet email series!
Eating healthy after cancer treatment can provide your body with the nutrients it needs and give you energy, but you don’t have to be perfect. Do your best and try to eat healthy 80% of the time. In the other 20%, let yourself have fun, enjoy your food, and give yourself permission to have a treat every now and then.
To read more tips from Dara Kurtz, check out our Empowered Living Page. You can also check out her substack page here!
