Alice Mwakini, 52, a breast cancer fighter, has been battling the disease for two years.
As she was diagnosed in October 2022, she faced uncertainty about what she should eat during her treatment. Like many patients, she sought advice from her doctor.
The response surprised her. “Just eat anything you can eat.” This answer surprised Alice. I have heard many stories about restrictive diets for cancer patients.
Alice, a beef lover, was relieved.
In the early days of chemotherapy, Alice relied on her cravings and energy levels to guide her eating. But sometimes her body rejects certain foods.
“You can’t eat everything when you’re having this treatment,” she says.
As treatment continued, especially during radiotherapy sessions in July 2023, Alice noticed changes in her body and appetite. Some days, she felt so sick that she couldn’t eat. “There was a time when I didn’t even want to eat…and the medications were making me sick,” she says.
As she approached the one-year mark of her treatment, Alice became curious about the role of nutrition in her recovery. Like many patients, she turned to the Internet for guidance. But she soon realized the dangers of relying too heavily on online sources.
“When you’re in cancer treatment, don’t even go to Google. It will mislead you,” she says.
Alice learned that sugar and processed foods can negatively affect cancer cells. “I think cancer cells feed on sugar,” she says. Thanks to this knowledge, she modified her diet and reduced her intake of processed meats and sugary sweets.
“I don’t eat sausages and bacon anymore. I also avoid bread, processed foods and soft drinks. However, Alice still enjoys what she loves, but in moderation.
Researchers recommend limiting simple sugars. Excessive intake can lead to poor blood sugar control, weight gain, and inadequate nutrition. For cancer patients, balanced meals are essential.
A nutritious plate should include complex carbohydrates, a protein source such as fish, lean meat, legumes or soy, and healthy fats such as olive oil or avocado. This blend provides vital nutrients and energy.
To keep her immune system strong, Alice incorporates homemade juices into her diet. They focus on natural, nourishing and manageable ingredients.
“I started looking for juices, which are a mixture of ginger, beetroot, carrots and turmeric,” she says. However, she avoids excessive intake of nutritional supplements or natural remedies.
“I remember when I started radiotherapy; within 11 days, my hair started falling out. So a friend advised me to start using some hair growth boosters.
Like many cancer patients, Alice lost more than five kilograms due to chemotherapy and dietary changes. However, she has found a rhythm in eating that works for her.
“I don’t overdo it. I only have one glass of juice every day,” she says.
Due to her condition, their menu at home had to change as well. “We don’t eat breakfast at home. This is because in the morning I only eat a mixture of lemon, ginger and turmeric. We have also reduced the consumption of meat and wheat,” she says.
In the end, she says, “Even with cancer, I eat what I like.” But I control myself, because in the end, it’s all about balance.
Caxton Ouma, a nutrition expert, emphasizes the crucial role of nutrition for cancer patients. “Patients undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy often face severe nutritional depletion,” says Uma.
Chemotherapy can be stressful on the body. It can lead to muscle wasting, hair loss, deteriorating nails, and dry skin. This is why health practitioners insist that cancer patients closely monitor their nutrition.
“We recommend whole grains and do not recommend fruits that are high in sugar, such as mangoes and processed juices,” he says.
Caxton Ouma, nutritionist during an interview at the Nation Centre, Nairobi on February 1, 2023.
Image credit: Evans Abel | Nation Media Group
Cancer patients should work closely with a nutritionist to calculate the required amount of proteins, minerals and other nutrients. “This ensures they continue to be supported nutritionally throughout their treatment,” he says.
“For patients with severe wasting, we increase protein intake to support tissue repair, especially muscle,” he says.
It also warns against consuming processed or unknown meat. “Many animals are treated with drugs before they are slaughtered. These toxins can harm cancer patients with weak livers. If they could trace the source of their meat, such as home-raised cattle, they would have greater control over what they consume.”
When it comes to common side effects like hair and nail loss, Mr. Ouma recommends biotin. This vitamin promotes hair and nail growth. However, he stresses that although biotin can be obtained from foods such as fermented soybeans and peanuts, supplements in measured doses may be needed.
“The amount of biotin required for recovery must be calculated. Excessive intake can have harmful effects,” he says.
Fruits are useful for boosting immunity. However, even fruits like oranges should be consumed in moderation due to their sugar content. “The dietitian should guide the patient on the exact amount of fruit he should consume. Excess sugar can stimulate the growth of cancer cells,” says Mr. Uma.
It discourages patients from self-diagnosing using online sources. “Googling for answers can be misleading. They do not provide personal calculations,” he explains. For example, vitamin C is essential for enhancing iron absorption. However, the exact amount required should be determined by a professional.
For patients who suffer from nausea due to chemotherapy, citrus fruits such as lemon can help. But Mr. Ouma warns that excessive intake can be counterproductive. “Patients may lose their appetite, and the way to address that is through a supportive environment. Offer them foods they enjoy,” he says.
In cases of diarrhea, it is recommended to increase water intake. In general, patients need someone to monitor their nutrition.
“Cancer patients can eat a wide range of foods. But quality control is vital, especially with regard to sugar and processed substances. Alcohol, wine and cigarettes should be avoided. For those in palliative care, dietary moderation may not be enforced. However, for those who They have a chance of survival, but diet remains the key to their recovery.