Erick Mahatara: The Double-Edged Role of Nutrition in Cancer
Erick Mahatara, Ambassador and Scholar at Cancer Fight Tanzania, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“The Double-Edged Role of Nutrition in Cancer
Nutrition is a critical factor in our health, influencing not only our risk of developing cancer but also the health outcomes of cancer patients. The foods we consume daily processed foods, high-fat diets, sugary drinks, and chemically preserved products can increase our vulnerability to cancer due to their carcinogenic properties. In today’s world, where junk food and industrially processed meals dominate our diet, the risk of developing cancer has significantly risen.
However, nutrition is not only a risk factor it is also a powerful tool in managing cancer. For individuals already diagnosed with cancer, dietary choices can greatly influence treatment response, recovery, and overall survival. Proper nutrition supports the immune system, improves energy levels, reduces inflammation, and enhances the body’s ability to tolerate cancer treatments.
On the other hand, poor nutrition worsens health outcomes, leading to malnutrition, weight loss, and a weakened immune system, making cancer treatment less effective. For example, a diabetic cancer patient requires careful nutritional management to maintain stable blood sugar levels and prevent complications. When provided with the right diet, such a patient has a higher chance of improved health and better disease management.
Thus, nutrition serves as both a preventive measure against cancer and a therapeutic intervention for those already affected. Making informed dietary choices is essential not only to reduce cancer risk but also to enhance the quality of life and survival rates for cancer patients.”
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