A dietitian that focuses on cancer patients has disclosed the dietary advice she gives them in an effort to prevent the illness.
For the past 12 years, Nichole Andrews has worked with survivors, creating meal plans for both before and after treatment to help reduce the likelihood that the illness would recur. However, she claims that the general public can also benefit from her guidance.
The advice comes amid an unexplained rise in early-onset malignancies, and includes some that readers may find surprising, such as staying away from protein bars and supplements.
Avoid items including Green powders, Diet Supplements, Alcohol, Processed meats, High protein Donuts-cookies-cakes-chips, and Keto diet.
Green powders
Green powders are commonly promoted as a convenient way to fulfill nutritional requirements and address dietary deficiencies. However, Andrews opposes their use, cautioning that they often lack essential fibers crucial for preventing cancer.
She remarked, “I would never opt for these green powders as a substitute for fruits and vegetables. They lack fiber, contain no liquids, and are sometimes fortified with unfamiliar herbal ingredients that could harm your liver. Just stick to consuming fruits and veggies and avoid green powders.”
Supplements
Nearly six out of ten Americans regularly use supplements. However, Andrews highlighted the dark side of the $50 billion industry, suggesting that many individuals may be unnecessarily taking vitamins due to adequate nutrient intake from food and other sources. This poses the risk of accidental overdose, as the supplements market lacks thorough regulation, often resulting in excessive nutrient content in pills.
“Supplements can increase the risk of cancer due to high-dose formulations, exceeding 200 percent of the daily value,” she cautioned. Elevated doses of supplements such as Vitamin B3 have been associated with a heightened risk of brain cancer, while others like Vitamin C and E have been linked to accelerated tumor growth. Conversely, certain supplements, like calcium, have been proposed to lower the risk of colon cancer.
Alcohol
On average, Americans consume approximately four alcoholic beverages per week, with one in five engaging in binge drinking at least once a month—defined as consuming five or more drinks in a single night. However, research has consistently associated alcohol consumption, regardless of quantity, with an elevated risk of various cancers, including those of the breast, liver, throat, and mouth.
Ms. Andrews emphasized her abstention from alcohol consumption entirely, citing its association with an increased risk of six different types of cancer. She stated, “I do not drink alcohol, ever, in any form, none. Alcohol elevates the risk of six cancers, regardless of the amount consumed. No alcohol.”
Processed meats
Deli meats, bacon, hot dogs, and prosciutto commonly contain added nitrates and nitrites to prolong their freshness. However, these additives have been associated with cancer by researchers, who have discovered that they react in the body to form compounds known to induce cancer in animals.
Ms. Andrews advised against using processed meats in sandwiches, emphasizing, “I do not make my sandwiches with processed meats. Instead, I precook chicken and slice it for use in sandwiches or wraps. Processed meats heighten the risk of colorectal cancer. Opt for fresh meats, canned tuna, or vegetable sandwiches instead.”
High-Protein Snacks
High-protein cookies, donuts, and chips are often mentioned, although they do not increase the risk of cancer. Andrews emphasized that these items should still be regarded as indulgent treats.
Andrews cautioned against assuming that high-protein snacks are inherently healthier choices. “If you desire a donut, enjoy a donut. But do not assume it’s a superior choice simply because it contains protein.”
These observations come amidst growing concerns over the obesity epidemic in the US, with approximately one in three adults in the country classified as obese.
Avoid the Keto diet
Disapproving of the keto diet, Andrews remarked, “Our bodies are designed to obtain 50 percent of our calorie intake from carbohydrates because that’s our body’s preferred energy source. Additionally, it’s the preferred energy source for our brains. So, if you experience brain fog regularly or wish to support brain health, prioritize consuming carbohydrates.”
Exercise 150 minutes a week
Andrews emphasized the World Health Organization’s endorsement of a minimum of 150 minutes of exercise each week. Additionally, she stressed the importance of incorporating movement throughout the day to lower the risk of cancer.
She highlighted the significance of avoiding prolonged periods of sitting, as previous research has linked extended sedentary behavior to an elevated risk of various cancers, including those of the colon, ovaries, and endometrium. This association may stem from the body maintaining higher blood sugar levels for extended periods during sedentary periods, thereby increasing the risk of cellular damage.
Sleep seven hours a night
The CDC recommends that everyone should aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night, a sentiment that Andrews echoed.
“I prioritize sleep. It’s crucial to get at least seven hours of sleep each night,” she emphasized. “Sleep helps regulate hormones and supports cellular and muscle repair. Especially during cancer treatment, adequate sleep is essential for the body to recover.”
Eat Breakfast
Previously championed by cereal brands, Andrews advocates for having breakfast and encourages others to do the same.
“I never skip breakfast,” she stated firmly. “It’s a crucial meal of the day.”
Andrews emphasized that waking up hungry in the morning is a sign of a healthy metabolism. She highlighted research showing that people who eat breakfast tend to have a healthier weight and experience more success with weight loss.
Organic Labels are Often Misleading
When feasible, Andrews claims to always purchase regular fruits and vegetables over organic ones.
“Organic and conventional have the same nutritional differences, and organics also use pesticides,” the speaker stated.
“Unless there is no other option, I always buy conventional because I would rather get some fruits and veggies than none at all.”
Because they are grown in the same soil, organic and conventional foods have been proved in multiple tests to be equally nutritious.
