Tradewinds Flashback: Warren Green May 2014 Article

 

 

Cancer survivors must be very diligent in what they  consume. So, in this article I'll discuss "essential nutrients". Essential Nutrients include: Water,  Carbohydrates, Protein, Lipids, Minerals, and Vitamins.  

 

-Water/Hydration is necessary for all life, but is particularly important to cancer survivors. Cancer survivors should always include anti-oxidant's in their hydration regimen. Fluid intake should consist of at least 64ozs. I like green tea, pomegranate juice, red wine, and vegetable juice with high potassium content. I use a digital scale to weigh myself before sleep and in the morning. I use the difference between the two, to determine how much to rehydrate. Proper hydration is the key to everything 

-Carbohydrates should be the bulk of your diet, and current scientific studies suggest that  some components in cruciferous carbohydrates could protect cells from DNA damage, inactivate carcinogens, promote anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory immune system responses.  

 -Proteins are in the area that requires diligence. Protein should be limited to less than 15% per day,  and the bulk of that should not include antibiotics. In my last article (May 2013) we touched on the avoidance of antibiotics. Antibiotics can compromise the immune system so you might want to limit your consumption of proteins where they may occur (red meat, poultry).Oily fish such as tuna, salmon, are excellent alternatives as they are a powerful source of the polyunsaturated lipid, omega 3.     

-Lipids (fats, oils)  together with carbohydrates, and proteins are the main constituents of plant and animal cells. Fats should be primarily polyunsaturated or monounsaturated. The quality of your fat intake has a direct impact on your quality of life.

 -Minerals are essential for carrying out various body functions including, promoting health and growth, blood circulation, and fluid regulation, among a plethora of other things.  Minerals are classified into two categories, major minerals and trace minerals.    

 -Vitamins facilitate the chemical reactions that produce among other things, skin, bone, and muscle. For the most part, vitamins are obtained from food, but a few are obtained from other sources. For example, Vitamin D is synthesized by the sun.     

 

 The crux of this article is to emphasize the need to consume the highest quality essential elements to assure cancer survival and the highest possible quality of life. A cancer survivor must build their diet around their needs . The Ingredient statements and nutrition facts on packaged foods should be required reading. 

 

Warren is a retired USDA Food Safety Specialist and cancer survivor.

 

 Be the first to tell to your friends by sharing on social media.


Click one of the social sharing icons below