Foods to Eat When You Have Lung Cancer

Following a healthy diet is good advice for anyone. But if you have lung cancer, a diet that emphasizes lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may be particularly beneficial in helping you feel better during treatment. A balanced diet is also important in fighting certain effects of lung cancer, as the disease can lead to malnutrition and cancer-related cachexia, the involuntary loss of weight and muscle.

Protein is essential for strong muscle and bone, as well as many other aspects of health. For example, protein supports the immune system and helps the body repair damaged tissue. While a moderate amount of lean protein is enough for most people, cancer treatment side effects could mean you require extra lean protein in your diet. Healthy sources of lean proteins include fish, poultry, eggs, low-fat dairy, beans, and soy products.

Salmon is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids – nutrients that promote a healthy immune system and lower inflammation. Getting enough salmon and foods rich in omega-3s can be especially helpful for people with lung cancer, as they can reduce the inflammatory complications of chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Those foods may also help improve the mental health and quality of life of folks diagnosed with lung cancer.

Fruits are excellent sources of carbohydrates, which you need for energy, and for nutrients and fiber, which support overall health. But because chemotherapy and other types of cancer treatment can cause mouth sores, you may want to steer clear of citrus fruits, like oranges, because they contain citric acid. That can burn your mouth. Instead, opt for fruits like bananas, apples, berries, and dried apricots.

Cruciferous vegetables include broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, arugula, and turnips. These vegetables contain nutrients and compounds that help lower the risk of cancer and other diseases. Some key nutrients include vitamins C, E, and K, as well as carotenoids and glucosinolates. Cruciferous vegetables also help fight inflammation. Reduced inflammation can help your body fight cancer and repair damaged tissue.

Mushrooms are packed with nutrients and compounds that not only support overall health, but may help you fight inflammation, high cholesterol, and even cancer. Some of their main disease-fighting nutrients include vitamin D, vitamin B complex, potassium, and selenium, among many others. Selenium, in particular, is linked to improved outcomes and better survival rates for people with stage I lung cancer.

Yogurt can be helpful in several ways if you're dealing with the challenges of lung cancer treatment. Yogurt is an excellent low-fat source of protein, along with calcium and vitamin D. Besides supporting bone health, calcium and vitamin D also help fight inflammation. Protein is important for stronger immune health and healing damaged tissue. Also, if you have a sore mouth, yogurt is easy to eat and swallow.

A warm bowl of oatmeal not only provides the emotional benefits of comfort food, but it also serves as a healthy source of fiber and carbs. Getting enough fiber in your diet is one way to treat constipation – a common side effect of cancer treatment. Healthy carbs can help keep your energy levels up. Mixing oatmeal with fresh berries can give you an extra serving of carbs and inflammation-fighting antioxidants.

Avocados have several nutrients and phytochemicals that may help lower the risk of cancer. Avocados are also tasty sources of fiber and healthy monounsaturated fat, which is linked with good heart and blood vessel health and better health overall. You need fat in your diet to store energy and protect tissue. Avocados are also versatile foods that can be used in salads, omelets, guacamole, and by themselves as healthy sides.

Ginger packs a one-two punch for people with cancer, as it can help lower inflammation and ease nausea symptoms and vomiting that can come with chemotherapy. Ginger may be taken as an oral supplement or added to smoothies, tea, stir-fries, or other foods and beverages. While modest amounts of ginger are usually well-tolerated, consuming too much at one time may lead to problems such as heartburn or diarrhea.

Like ginger, mint – including peppermint – can help reduce feelings of nausea linked to cancer treatment. Mint is also an essential oil, like chamomile, which can actually stimulate hunger in people who have cancer or other serious health problems and have lost their appetites. Mint is available as an herbal seasoning or supplement. Some people even like to chew on mint leaves. Experiment and see which form works for you.

While there are no foods that cure lung cancer, a healthy diet may help you manage the condition a little better. If you're unsure how to craft the right diet, talk with your doctor or work with a registered dietitian. And don't hesitate to rely on foods that you enjoy and that you can digest easily. There's no one dietary prescription that's right for everyone, so consider a little trial and error as you map out your new eating plan.