Cancer has emerged as a widespread ailment in today’s times. It is a life-threatening condition that can affect any individual irrespective of age, sex, or lifestyle. There are various types of cancers that can affect an individual and are classified on the basis of the body parts that are affected. One of the most notorious forms of cancer is multiple myeloma.
What is multiple myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is one type of blood cancer wherein the bone marrow is affected. When the blood cells known as plasma become cancerous, it results in formation of a tumor within the bone marrow. If there is a single tumor it is known as myeloma, but if there are multiple tumors in the bone marrow, this condition is known as multiple myeloma.
Effects of multiple myeloma on the body
The normal function of plasma cells is to fight infections and keep the body free from them. But when the plasma cells become cancerous, they prevent the healthy plasma cells from performing this function. As a result, the patient can experience anemia and becomes susceptible to several life-threatening infections. Moreover, these cancerous cells hasten the process of break-down of bones and stop formation of new bones. Thus, it makes the patient prone to fractures and breaks.
Importance of diet in multiple myeloma
There are no particular food products that can treat multiple myeloma, but consumption of certain food products can help in managing of the common symptoms and reduce the discomfort. Similarly, there are several food products that must be avoided during the treatment for multiple myeloma.
Foods to eat
Protein rich foods: Protein helps in repairing cells and tissues as well as strengthening the immune system. Foods that are rich in protein include eggs, chicken, fish, nuts, soy products, and low-fat dairy products.
Carbohydrate and fiber-rich foods: These help in maintaining energy levels to fight the infection. Foods such as whole wheat breads, oats, and brown rice must be included in the diet.
Antioxidant-rich foods: They increase the body’s strength to fight against cancer. Assorted fresh fruits and vegetables must be consumed daily for their antioxidant rich content.
Healthy fats: These fats provide strength to the body without raising the cholesterol level. Olive oil, avocado, and nuts are rich in healthy fats.
Iron-rich foods: Such foods help fight against anemia. Foods such as red meat, beans, chickpeas, and spinach are rich in iron.
Foods to avoid
Sugary foods: Consumption of foods rich in added sugars must be restricted. Foods such as candies, desserts, sweetened drinks, and sweets must be avoided.
Fatty foods: Food products loaded with unhealthy fats must be avoided as they increase your bad cholesterol level and lead to weight gain. This includes fries, burgers, pizzas, ice-cream, among others.
Uncooked meat products: Raw and uncooked meat products including seafood and poultry must be avoided during the treatment.
Unpasteurized dairy products: Unpasteurized dairy products such as milk, cheese, and cottage cheese must not be consumed.
Ensuring proper management of diet is crucial while the treatment of multiple myeloma is going on. You can also consult your doctor regarding the same.
