Scientific-Based Information

There is a lack of scientific based information available to people with cancer and the general public interested in the link between diet and cancer, and the sometimes-dangerous alternative diets that people experiment with.

‘The Truth Behind Food and Cancer’ provides accurate information on fad diets that have not yet been proven to be safe or effective in the prevention or treatment of cancer.  It exposes the most common myths and misconceptions around the links between food and cancer, and offers simple explanations and advice based on medical evidence.

‘No jargon, no nonsense, straight up, accessible
advice from experts without an agenda.’
Elaine Tierney, Cancer Survivor.


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What Can I Do To Eat Well During Cancer Treatment?

Good nutrition is important during cancer treatment. Cancer itself and cancer treatment can change the way you eat. Eating well may help you feel better and help you to maintain your strength during treatment.

It may also help reduce treatment related side–effects such as nausea and fatigue.
The most important thing is to continue eating foods that you enjoy and to not feel restricted by fad diets discussed in the media.

Good nutrition can help reduce your risk of infection and help you recover quicker after cancer treatment. Maintaining your weight during treatment can help with this.

Aim to keep your weight steady during treatment

It is recommended to monitor your weight twice a month during your cancer treatment. Ask to see a dietitian if you are losing weight or think you might be losing weight. Some cancer patients report that they are happy to be losing weight but research shows that it is more beneficial to keep your weight steady during cancer treatment, even if you are overweight.

Studies have shown that 50-80% of patients with cancer experience some degree of weight loss during their cancer journey and that over 4 in 10 cancer patients lose very significant amounts of muscle.

It is also important to know that using body mass index (BMI) is not always accurate.
A person may have a healthy or overweight BMI and still experience significant muscle wasting. Muscle wasting is associated with poorer tolerance to treatment, increased complications and reduced quality of life.

Weight stability during cancer treatment can help maintain strength and reduced tiredness. It may also help reduce side effects of cancer treatment.