Fruits are a type of food that provides many essential nutrients for the body. Certain fruits, such as oranges, tangerines, pineapples, and pears, can help prevent various types of cancer and enhance the body's resistance against diseases. For individuals undergoing cancer treatment, it is important to make informed choices about the types of fruits that are suitable for their condition in order to optimally support their treatment.
1. Why should cancer patients eat fruits?
Experts recommend that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is very beneficial for your health. In particular, certain fruits with exceptional benefits can help cancer patients improve their condition and prevent disease recurrence.
Fruits are considered a source of essential nutrients for patients undergoing cancer treatment. The types of fruits beneficial for cancer patients also help alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms caused by cancer and its treatment methods. Below are some types of fruits recommended by nutritionists for specific cases of cancer patients, including:
- Nausea and vomiting: Cancer patients experiencing these symptoms should consume canned fruits, peaches, applesauce, and other soft fruits.
- Constipation: Cancer patients suffering from constipation should eat dried fruits, fresh fruits, or plum juice.
- Diarrhea: Cancer patients with diarrhea should drink fruit juices and consume fruits like apples and bananas.
- Loss of Appetite: For cancer patients experiencing loss of appetite, high-calorie foods should be chosen, including fruit smoothies and dried fruits.
- Mouth sores: Patients should opt for fruit-based liquids such as apple juice, applesauce, or canned fruits.
2. Which types of fruits are best for cancer patients?
What fruits should cancer patients eat to boost their immune system? Below are the best fruit options for those undergoing cancer treatment and wishing to prevent disease recurrence.
2.1. Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruits, are considered some of the best fruits for cancer patients because they may help prevent certain types of cancer. A large study in Japan found that individuals who regularly consumed citrus fruits or drank citrus juice about 3 to 4 days a week had a lower risk of developing cancer compared to those who consumed them less than 2 days a week.
The results of the study also revealed that citrus fruits may help combat several types of cancer, including:
- Respiratory cancers, such as lung cancer
- Digestive cancers, such as colorectal cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Pharyngeal cancer, a type of head and neck cancer
- Breast cancer
- Skin cancer, such as melanoma
2.2. Apples and white fruits
A recent study has shown that consuming apples may reduce the risk of lung cancer. Additionally, they may help prevent and combat several other types of cancer, including:
- Colorectal cancer
- Breast cancer
- Digestive cancers
This is because apples contain two compounds: polysaccharides (a type of carbohydrate) and quercetin (a plant pigment). Both of these compounds are effective in preventing the formation of cancer-causing cells in the body.
In addition to apples, fruits with white flesh (commonly referred to as white fruits), such as cantaloupe and pears, may help inhibit the development of colorectal cancer.
2.3. Green fruits
Green fruits can be very effective in preventing and combating colorectal cancer. Recommended green fruits include:
- Green grapes
- Kiwi
- Sweet melons
A recent study has shown that consuming kiwi can help prevent cancer development. This is due to the powerful antioxidants found in kiwi and its ability to promote a healthy digestive system.
2.4. Dried fruits
Dried fruits such as raisins and prunes can be one of the healthy options for cancer patients. Research indicates that regularly consuming dried fruits can help prevent certain types of cancer and prevent cancer from worsening.
Nutritionists recommend that you consume about 3 to 5 servings of dried fruits per week to help prevent the following conditions:
- Colorectal polyps
- Prostate cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Mortality from pancreatic cancer
2.5. Some other types of fruits
Studies have identified a range of phytochemicals that may play a significant role in cancer prevention, including:
- Carotenoids: Plant pigments commonly found in oranges
- Bromelain: An enzyme found in pineapples
- Antioxidants in pomegranates
Overall, most fruits such as pineapples, pomegranates, and oranges contain a high amount of fiber, which helps reduce the risk of certain cancers and aids in maintaining a healthy weight.
For cancer patients, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is very important. Therefore, patients should pay attention to incorporating the aforementioned fruits into their daily diet to ensure optimal health.
In addition, patients also need to focus on regular health check-ups so that doctors can monitor and manage the condition effectively at each stage.
If you need specific advice on nutrition for different types of cancer, you can send your questions to the website of Vinmec International General Hospital. Alternatively, you can contact the hospital directly to receive valuable insights from experienced doctors and specialists.
Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.
Reference source: webmd.com
