Give your body the energy you need
Of course, a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients won’t cure cancer. But it can help give you the energy you need now more than ever. The better your nutritional status, the better your body can take the strain from surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and also the better your immune response functions. All nutrients are important to metabolic processes running smoothly. Deficiencies promote sickness.
However, there is a certain "division of labor".
Here are 7 valuable nutrients your body needs – and why
1. Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are your main source of energy. Starch and sugar are the main sources of carbohydrates in our daily diet. Our brain in particular needs sugar (glucose). When we get tired or hungry, it’s possible our blood sugar level has dropped. If we don’t eat enough carbohydrates, the body can also siphon off valuable protein to meet its energy needs.
2. Protein
Protein consists of amino acids and is also the major functional and structural component of all the cells in our body. They form enzymes to protect our cells, heal wounds and build up the muscles. Our digestion, immune response and clotting ability rely on adequate protein intake. Our hair, our fingernails, all enzymes as well as many hormones are made up of proteins.
3. Fat
Fat is the main energy store in the body. Small amounts pack a lot of calories. The cells in our body, or our nerves can use fat as a nutrient. Some fatty acids play a role in our anti-inflammatory pathways while others could increase inflammation. Also, some vitamins can only be absorbed by the body when fat is also present.
4. Fiber
Fiber is a plant component that the body can’t digest. It’s very useful to us, since it regulates digestion and can improve digestive health, immune protection and our blood cholesterol level. Dietary fiber is also the nutritional basis for our gut bacteria, called the microbiome.
5. Vitamins
Vitamins are essential substances that the body needs but can’t produce itself. They strengthen the body's defenses and improve our well-being, keep our metabolism going, build up neurotransmitters in the brain and nerves, strengthen bones and tissues, protect the skin, and improve our concentration. A lack of vitamins can have serious consequences.
6. Minerals and trace elements
Minerals (Na, K, Ca, Mg, Cl, Phophate) are responsible for nerve and muscle function, bone and teeth formation and more. Trace elements, e.g. iron and selenium, are parts of enzymes and are essential nutrients for the proper growth, development, and physiology of the organism.
7. Water
Water is the main component of our body and a transport medium. It’s involved in the regulation of our body temperature and hydrates the skin. Water is also a part of the body's fluid balance and transports nutrients.
Feeding the tumor?
Have you ever thought that you’re also nourishing the tumor when you eat as a cancer patient? Have no doubts, starvation is never a solution in cancer treatment. On the contrary, a lack of the essential nutrients may even prevent you from recovering.
In short:
As different as the nutrients are, the right mix between them is important regardless of being healthy or having special needs.
- The more varied your diet, the better your nutrient intake
- No single food contains every nutrient
- Your body can only draw on what you give it
- Make sure you take your time when eating and drinking
Being conscious about a healthy and well-balanced diet is one of the things you can always do for yourself. It is the basis for maximizing your physical condition and your well-being.
Read more about your changed nutritional needs on the pages below.
