Cancer Prevention and Treatment through Nutrition

In the fight against cancer, good nutrition is crucial and is an important part of cancer treatment. Eating the right foods before, during, and after treatment can help one to feel better and stay stronger. According to the American Cancer Society, healthy eating habits combined with other factors (maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active and limiting alcohol consumption) could reduce deaths in the United States by as much as 30 percent.

Adopting a healthier diet is one of the best ways to prevent cancer. While there is no single food or food substance that can protect you against cancer, the right combination of foods, exercise and regular cancer screenings can significantly reduce your cancer risk.

Nutrition for Prevention
A cancer-fighting strategy includes eating a balance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans, and maintaining a diet high in fiber, rich in antioxidants and low in fat.

Nutrition for Treatment
A healthy diet is also an important part of a cancer treatment plan. Effects of cancer and cancer treatments make it difficult to eat well. Cancer treatments and side effects may alter taste and appetite, as well as the ability to tolerate certain foods and obtain proper nutrients.

Nutrition counseling is an important part of the cancer treatment programs at the Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania and the Joan Karnell Cancer Center at Pennsylvania Hospital. A well-balanced nutrition plan can improve tolerance and response to therapy, as well as promote and sustain recovery. Penn's cancer services have programs available to help patients maintain their physical well-being during and after cancer treatment.

The Joan Karnell Cancer Center offers a variety of recipes incorporating cancer-fighting foods that are beneficial for both patients with cancer and people looking to adopt a healthier diet. Cooking programs are also offered throughout the year.

OncoLink, the Abramson Cancer Center's award-winning Internet resource, provides informative and useful recommendations for developing a healthy diet during cancer treatment in its “Nutrition During Treatment” section.

To learn more about Penn's comprehensive cancer services or to schedule an appointment with a cancer specialist, visit Penn Cancer Services.

	Need an appointment? Request one online 24 hours/day, 7 days/week or call 800-789-PENN (7366) to speak to a referral counselor.