Nutrition

There is strong evidence that dietary factors are important in carcinogenesis and that many cases of cancer could be prevented by making improvements in diet. The influence of nutritional status on the length and/or quality of life for those already diagnosed with cancer has not yet been thoroughly studied. However, a growing body of research literature suggests that good nutritional support for people with a history of cancer can have numerous benefits: preventing the malnutrition that is so common in this population, preventing the spread or recurrence of cancer, preventing other degenerative diseases, alleviating symptoms of cancer and the side effects of treatment, enhancing emotional well-being, and enabling patients to take more active control over their health. This chapter explores dietary components that may support (anti-cancer agents) or undermine (cancer-promoting agents) the health of cancer patients. Details of a supportive diet are given, along with nutritional recommendations to alleviate some common symptoms. Diet and nutritional supplements to support the health of cancer survivors are considered.