What not to eat when fighting mesothelioma

A diagnosis of mesothelioma can be devastating and the emotional turmoil, disease symptoms, and treatments can lead to a lack of appetite. However, it is important that sufferers maintain a healthy weight and are well-nourished to maximize their recovery from treatments and survival. When receiving a cancer diagnosis, some people may be inclined to completely overhaul their eating habits and this can be a positive step. However, there are a number of diets that can be good for healthy people, but should not be adopted by mesothelioma sufferers. We discuss these in detail below.

Vegan Diet

A vegan diet contains no animal products, only plants such as vegetables, grains, nuts, and fruits. Vegans do not eat meat, dairy, fish, gelatine, or honey. Whilst many people take up this diet as a lifestyle choice, it is not suitable for mesothelioma patients. This is because mesothelioma patients often face nutritional issues such as not eating enough protein and not consuming enough calories. Unfortunately, a vegan diet can make this worse. By eating solely fruit and vegetables you can have a large bulk of food with fewer calories, and so mesothelioma patients may feel fuller without necessarily getting all of the calories they need. People with mesothelioma, particularly those who are going through chemotherapy, can lose their appetite. Therefore, it is important that the food they do manage to eat is packed with nutrients and calories so they can get the most out of it.

Cleanses

Cleanses supposedly remove toxins from the body. They can be very expensive, and are often unnecessary as the body is capable of removing toxins naturally by itself. Whether you buy cleanse powders or juices, or create a homemade cleanse, you should know that neither have been shown to have any proven health benefits. A diet cleanse reduces the amount of calories and protein you consume. This is great if you are trying to lose weight, but as a mesothelioma sufferer, you need to maintain a good weight and keep your energy up. This is not something you can do if you are following a cleanse diet. Treatments for mesothelioma can be tough on the body and patients need as much help as they can get. They need energy and calories are the best way to ensure that energy levels are increased. A cleanse will zap energy stores and is not recommended for someone with mesothelioma.

Low-Carb Diet

Many people’s diets consist of between 40 and 50% carbohydrates - a low carb diet restricts this amount. This can be a good change for healthy people who are trying to lose weight. However, for people with mesothelioma is it not a good idea to follow such a diet. Mesothelioma and the treatments associated with the disease can cause changes to a person’s taste. Many patients find they cannot eat the foods they usually like. Instead, they tend to prefer bland carbohydrates such as crackers and toast. On a low-carb diet eating these substitutes would not be possible. Everyone is different and what works for one person may not work for another so it is important to do what is right for you. Try to eat well and if you are having any problems with your diet and weight maintenance, consult your treating medical team.

How can we help?

If you require assistance in pursuing a mesothelioma claim or believe you have a valid asbestos claim for any other asbestos disease then please contact us today on our freephone number 0800 038 6767. Alternatively, head over to the ‘Contact Us’ page, complete the form and we will be in touch.

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