Mesothelioma Treatment: Nutrition for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma patients undergoing cancer treatments of various kinds should build up their immune system, energy and strength through a healthy eating diet and a good nutritional program.
Mesothelioma patients need larger amounts of protein, vitamins, carbohydrates, monosaturated fats, minerals, and healthy fats to help them recover faster from aggressive treatment. Nutrients found in healthy foods will build up the immune system, help fight against infection and support healthy cell growth. Foods such as leafy green vegetables, fruits, chicken, and whole-milk dairy products should be included in a Mesothelioma patient’s nutritional program. Remember to avoid fast foods, processed foods, GMO foods, white bread and other foods loaded with empty calories.
Note: Always Consult with a dietitian about the best nutritional foods that will help build your immune system counteract the side effects Mesothelioma treatments.
5 Essential Eating Guidelines for Mesothelioma Patients
Protein: Protein helps ensure muscle growth, increases the body’s resistance to infection, will help repair body tissues damaged by surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Good sources of protein include poultry, fish, seafood, lean meat, eggs, dairy products, beans, and soy foods.
Carbohydrates: Will help the body’s main energy. Fats and carbohydrates help supply the body with the majority of its daily caloric intake. Good food sources rich in carbohydrates include non-GMO corn, rice, potatoes, whole wheat bread, pasta and cereals, fruits, and vegetables.
Vitamins and Minerals: Will help ensure healthy cell growth and allows the body to use the calories supplied by the foods eaten.
Water: Mesothelioma patients will need to keep themselves hydrated during treatments. Water is essential for life.
Monosaturated and Polyunsaturated Fats: These healthy fats are a source of energy and will help the body metabolize some types of vitamins more efficiently. Good sources of Monounsaturated fats are found in olive oil, peanut oil, olives, avocados, nuts, and pecans. Good sources of polyunsaturated fats are pumpkin seeds, soybean oil, herring, salmon, mackerel, tofu, soy milk and walnuts.
Mesothelioma Survivor Nutrition Tips
Mesothelioma patients should maintain their daily fluid intake and engage in physical activity to the extent their physical condition allows.
- During cancer treatments, mesothelioma patients often experience loss of appetite.
- Avoid eating when feeling nauseous to prevent potential vomiting.
- Opt for clear, non-carbonated, unsweetened beverages like grape juice to prevent dehydration.
- Incorporate calorie-rich foods such as milk, butter, honey, cheese, and sugars to prevent excessive weight loss.
- When experiencing nausea or difficulty swallowing, consume liquids and soft foods.
- Adequate nutrition is essential during mesothelioma chemotherapy and radiation therapy treatments.
- Vitamin E supplements may help induce apoptosis (cell death) and inhibit cancer growth in malignant mesothelioma.
- On better days, focus on consuming vitamin-rich foods and plenty of protein to maintain strength.
- Consume smaller, nutrient-dense meals at regular intervals throughout the day instead of three large meals.
- Blended drinks like fruit smoothies with dietary supplements can be easier to digest than solid foods.
- Nutrition and exercise are crucial for maintaining strength and bodily functions, thus enhancing quality of life for mesothelioma patients.
- During chemotherapy treatment, doctors recommend a 50% increase in protein intake and a 25% increase in calorie intake.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fluids, which also helps flush out toxins produced by mesothelioma treatments.
- Reducing carbohydrate intake may slow the growth of mesothelioma tumors, as tumor cells require more glucose to grow and reproduce.
- Grapefruit juice consumption has been shown to enhance the effects of chemotherapy drugs in patients with incurable cancers.
- Quercetin, found in the skin of various vegetables and fruits like red onions, has been found to induce apoptosis in malignant mesothelioma cancer cells.
Note: Always consult with your doctor before taking any supplements, as specific diets prescribed by doctors have shown better treatment response in mesothelioma patients according to medical studies.
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Mesothelioma Patients Should Avoid These Foods
- Avoid coffee and other caffeinated beverages.
Avoid foods that are hard to digest, such as fried foods, sweets and high content fatty foods.
Avoid trans-fatty acids and saturated fat or keep them to a minimum. - Nutrition Therapy Goals – Benefits of Nutrition for Mesothelioma Patient
The primary goal of nutrition therapy is to help Mesothelioma patients get the nutrients they need necessary to maintain a healthy weight and be able adjust to body stress brought on by aggressive treatment or malignant Mesothelioma cancer.
- Correct malnutrition.
- Assist patients in better tolerating aggressive treatments.
- Improve quality of life.
- Sustain a healthy immune system.
- Enhance the ability to fight infection.
- Preserve energy levels.
- Retain strength.
- Maintain or enhance quality of life.
- Prevent loss of bone mass.
- Prevent loss of muscle mass.
- Prevent loss of other lean body mass.
- Prevent malnutrition.
Mesothelioma Nutrition Tips
National Cancer Institute Recommendation for Cancer Patients; Increase protein in their nutrition diet with;
Cheese: Rich in protein and calcium, cheese can help maintain muscle mass and bone health during mesothelioma treatment, providing essential nutrients for strength and recovery.
Milk: High in calcium and vitamin D, milk supports bone health and helps prevent osteoporosis, common among mesothelioma patients undergoing treatment. It also provides protein for muscle strength.
Ice Cream: A cool and soothing treat, ice cream can provide much-needed calories and protein for mesothelioma patients experiencing appetite loss or difficulty eating due to treatment side effects.
Yogurt: Packed with probiotics, yogurt supports gut health and digestion, which can be affected by mesothelioma treatments. It’s also a good source of protein and calcium for overall strength.
Eggs: Easy to digest and versatile, eggs are a valuable source of protein and essential nutrients for mesothelioma patients, aiding in muscle repair, energy production, and overall health during treatment.
Nuts: Nutrient-dense and convenient, nuts provide healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants to support immune function and energy levels in mesothelioma patients, helping to combat fatigue and weakness.
Peanut Butter: With its smooth texture and rich flavor, peanut butter is a calorie-dense food that offers protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for mesothelioma patients.
Meats: Lean meats like chicken, turkey, and pork provide high-quality protein, iron, and B vitamins essential for muscle strength, energy, and immune function in mesothelioma patients undergoing treatment.
Fish: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein, fish offers anti-inflammatory benefits and supports heart health, making it a valuable addition to the diet of mesothelioma patients to promote overall well-being and recovery.
Foods with high calories intake Include:
Butter: While high in calories and saturated fats, butter should be consumed in moderation by mesothelioma patients to avoid excessive weight gain and cardiovascular risks. Use sparingly as a flavor enhancer.
Cheese: A good source of protein and calcium, cheese can be included in the diet of mesothelioma patients in moderation to support bone health and provide essential nutrients during treatment.
Honey: With its natural sweetness and antioxidant properties, honey can be used as a healthier alternative to refined sugars in mesothelioma patients’ diets, adding flavor and potential immune-boosting benefits.
Milk: Rich in calcium and vitamin D, milk supports bone health and provides essential nutrients for mesothelioma patients undergoing treatment. Choose low-fat or non-fat options to reduce saturated fat intake.
Sugars: Limiting added sugars is important for mesothelioma patients to maintain stable blood sugar levels and avoid unnecessary calories. Opt for natural sweeteners like honey or small amounts of refined sugars as needed.
Anti-Cancer Foods (should be organic) Include:
Blackberries: Rich in antioxidants and fiber, blackberries can support the immune system and aid digestion for mesothelioma patients, promoting overall health during treatment.
Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, blueberries can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in mesothelioma patients, supporting their immune system and overall well-being.
Broccoli: A cruciferous vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals, broccoli can provide mesothelioma patients with essential nutrients, including fiber and antioxidants, to support their health during treatment.
Brussels Sprouts: High in fiber and vitamins, Brussels sprouts can support digestion and provide mesothelioma patients with essential nutrients for overall health and well-being during treatment.
Cabbage: With its high fiber content and antioxidants, cabbage can promote digestion and provide mesothelioma patients with essential nutrients to support their immune system and overall health during treatment.
Citrus Fruits: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, citrus fruits can boost the immune system and provide mesothelioma patients with essential nutrients for overall health and well-being during treatment.
Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic can support the health of mesothelioma patients during treatment by providing antioxidants and potential anti-inflammatory benefits.
Green Tea: Packed with antioxidants and compounds with potential health benefits, green tea can support the immune system and overall health of mesothelioma patients during treatment.
Kale: A nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable, kale is rich in vitamins and minerals that can support the health of mesothelioma patients during treatment, including antioxidants and fiber.
Onions: Rich in antioxidants and compounds with potential health benefits, onions can support the immune system and overall health of mesothelioma patients during treatment.
Oregano: With its antioxidant properties and potential health benefits, oregano can support the immune system and overall health of mesothelioma patients during treatment.
Pears: Rich in fiber and antioxidants, pears can support digestion and provide mesothelioma patients with essential nutrients for overall health and well-being during treatment.
Raspberries: Packed with antioxidants and fiber, raspberries can support the immune system and aid digestion for mesothelioma patients, promoting overall health during treatment.
Rice Bran: High in fiber and nutrients, rice bran can support digestion and provide mesothelioma patients with essential nutrients for overall health and well-being during treatment.
Rosemary: With its antioxidant properties and potential health benefits, rosemary can support the immune system and overall health of mesothelioma patients during treatment.
Shiitake Mushrooms: Rich in antioxidants and compounds with potential health benefits, shiitake mushrooms can support the immune system and overall health of mesothelioma patients during treatment.
Spinach: A nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable, spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals that can support the health of mesothelioma patients during treatment, including antioxidants and fiber.
Thyme: With its antioxidant properties and potential health benefits, thyme can support the immune system and overall health of mesothelioma patients during treatment.
Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, tomatoes can support the immune system and provide mesothelioma patients with essential nutrients for overall health and well-being during treatment.
Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can support the health of mesothelioma patients during treatment by providing antioxidants and potential immune-boosting benefits.
Walnuts: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, walnuts can support heart health and provide mesothelioma patients with essential nutrients for overall well-being during treatment.
Wheat Bran: High in fiber and nutrients, wheat bran can support digestion and provide mesothelioma patients with essential nutrients for overall health and well-being during treatment.
Multi-Vitamins and Multi-Minerals
Co-enzyme Q10: Known for its antioxidant properties, coenzyme Q10 may help reduce oxidative stress and support overall health for mesothelioma patients during treatment.
Echinacea: With potential immune-boosting properties, echinacea supplements may help strengthen the immune system and support the overall well-being of mesothelioma patients undergoing treatment.
Shark Cartilage: Rich in proteins and minerals, shark cartilage supplements may help support joint health and provide additional nutrients for mesothelioma patients during treatment.
Fish Oil: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil supplements can help reduce inflammation and support heart health for mesothelioma patients undergoing treatment.
Selenium: As an essential mineral, selenium plays a crucial role in immune function and may help reduce oxidative stress for mesothelioma patients during treatment.
Zinc: With its immune-boosting properties, zinc supplements may help support the immune system and overall health for mesothelioma patients undergoing treatment.
Manganese: As a trace mineral, manganese is involved in various bodily functions and may help support bone health and metabolism for mesothelioma patients during treatment.
Copper: Essential for various physiological processes, copper supplements may help support the immune system and overall health for mesothelioma patients undergoing treatment.
Calcium: Crucial for bone health, calcium supplements may help support bone density and overall health for mesothelioma patients undergoing treatment.
Probiotics: Known for their potential to promote gut health, probiotic supplements may help support digestion and overall well-being for mesothelioma patients during treatment.
Evening Primrose Oil: Rich in omega-6 fatty acids, evening primrose oil supplements may help reduce inflammation and support skin health for mesothelioma patients undergoing treatment.
Vitamin B (all B types): Essential for various bodily functions, B vitamins may help support energy levels, nerve function, and overall health for mesothelioma patients during treatment.
Vitamin E: With its antioxidant properties, vitamin E may help reduce oxidative stress and support overall health for mesothelioma patients during treatment.
Vitamin A: Essential for vision, immune function, and skin health, vitamin A supplements may help support overall health for mesothelioma patients undergoing treatment.
Vitamin C: Known for its immune-boosting properties, vitamin C may help reduce oxidative stress and support the immune system for mesothelioma patients during treatment.
Vitamin D: Crucial for bone health and immune function, vitamin D supplements may help support bone density and overall health for mesothelioma patients undergoing treatment.
Vitamin K: Essential for blood clotting and bone metabolism, vitamin K supplements may help support bone health and overall well-being for mesothelioma patients during treatment.
Food to Avoid if You are a Mesothelioma Patients
Processed Meats: High in preservatives and additives, processed meats like hot dogs, bacon, and deli meats can increase inflammation and may negatively impact health for mesothelioma patients.
Sugary Foods and Beverages: Excessive sugar intake can lead to inflammation and may weaken the immune system, so it’s advisable for mesothelioma patients to limit consumption of sugary foods and beverages.
High-Fat Foods: Foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as fried foods and fatty cuts of meat, can contribute to inflammation and may exacerbate symptoms for mesothelioma patients.
Alcohol: Alcohol can weaken the immune system and may interfere with medications, so mesothelioma patients are advised to avoid or limit alcohol consumption to support their overall health.
High-Sodium Foods: Excess sodium intake can lead to fluid retention and high blood pressure, so mesothelioma patients should avoid consuming foods high in sodium, such as processed snacks, canned soups, and fast food.
Spicy Foods: Spicy foods can irritate the digestive system and may exacerbate symptoms like heartburn or acid reflux, so mesothelioma patients may benefit from avoiding spicy dishes.
Raw Sprouts: Raw sprouts can harbor bacteria and may pose a risk of foodborne illness, so mesothelioma patients are advised to avoid consuming raw sprouts to minimize the risk of infection.
Raw Shellfish: Raw shellfish, such as oysters and clams, may contain harmful bacteria or viruses that can cause food poisoning, so mesothelioma patients should avoid consuming raw shellfish to reduce the risk of illness.
Unpasteurized Dairy Products: Unpasteurized dairy products may contain harmful bacteria and pose a risk of foodborne illness, so mesothelioma patients should opt for pasteurized dairy products to minimize the risk of infection.
High-Fiber Foods: While fiber is essential for digestion, mesothelioma patients experiencing digestive issues may need to limit high-fiber foods like whole grains, beans, and cruciferous vegetables to prevent discomfort or irritation.
Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Cancer
Asbestos exposure has long been associated with mesothelioma, with manufacturers acknowledging its harmful effects since the early 1920s. The first definitive link between asbestos exposure and malignant mesothelioma was established in 1964 among workers and laborers.
Over 600,000 asbestos and mesothelioma lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers and distributors for failing to protect workers from asbestos contamination and neglecting to warn them about its health risks. The World Health Organization has reported over 92,253 mesothelioma deaths across 83 countries.
Various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and shipyards, extensively used asbestos-containing products, exposing workers to deadly asbestos dust. Mesothelioma typically progresses to stages 3 and 4 upon diagnosis due to its resemblance to other respiratory conditions, making early detection challenging. Individuals with a history of asbestos exposure should undergo annual check-ups by qualified physicians.
What is Mesothelioma Cancer?
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, and other major organs in the body. It is characterized by the presence of malignant cancer cells in the sac lining the chest (pleura) or the abdomen (peritoneum). In the United States, approximately 3,000 new cases of malignant mesothelioma are diagnosed each year. If you are experiencing any symptoms of mesothelioma, it is important to contact a doctor immediately for evaluation and diagnosis.
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
If you or a family member has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, you likely have many questions about living with the disease and exploring legal options against asbestos manufacturers and companies responsible for your asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is a profoundly deadly disease. According to the American Cancer Society, the average survival time for people with mesothelioma is 4-18 months.
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Family Member Died from Mesothelioma?
If you have a family member who has died from Mesothelioma cancer, you should immediately consult with an experienced Mesothelioma diagnosis lawyer about what compensation may be available to you from asbestos trust funds that total more than $30 billion.
We have seen many families lose their right to file a lawsuit because their Statute of Limitations had expired while they were grieving. We know it is a tough time to grieve the loss of a loved one, but please do not let your Statute of Limitations expire for filing your Mesothelioma lawsuit. In most states, the Statute of Limitations is 1-3 years.
It is VERY IMPORTANT that you file your Mesothelioma claim within your state’s Statute of Limitations.
Taking Legal Action
When confronted with the devastating impact of a mesothelioma diagnosis resulting from asbestos exposure, pursuing legal action becomes a crucial step towards securing the compensation you rightly deserve. Our team is here to assist you in initiating a mesothelioma lawsuit with an experienced mesothelioma attorney, ensuring the protection of your rights and the delivery of justice. Discover today which Asbestos Trust Funds you may be eligible for to receive compensation.
Schedule a FREE Case Consultation
Scheduling a free case consultation is your first step toward seeking justice in mesothelioma cancer lawsuits. We are ready to assess your unique situation and provide the guidance you will need during this challenging time. Take this essential step toward pursuing fair compensation for your mesothelioma-related injuries.
Get Help from an Experienced Mesothelioma Attorney
When dealing with the complexities of mesothelioma cancer lawsuits, getting help from an experienced injury attorney is crucial. For more than 24 years, we have assisted workers, veterans, and families in obtaining the compensation they deserved from negligent asbestos companies. Contact us at 888.640.0914 to secure the support you will need throughout your pursuit of fair and just compensation.
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Mesothelioma Treatment: Nutrition for Mesothelioma