Things You'll Want to Skip
What we eat and drink can have a big impact on our health. Believe it or not, our diet can affect our brain's health, too. If you have a brain tumor, it’s important to be careful about what you eat. While no food can cause or cure brain tumors, some foods might make things worse. Always consult your doctor about diet and treatment options, such as Ojemda, a prescription medicine that is used to treat brain tumors.
10 Worst Foods for Brain Tumors
1. Processed Meats
Processed meats like bacon, sausages and deli meats contain nitrates and nitrites, which are preservatives that can form carcinogenic compounds in the body. These can increase inflammation and may potentially contribute to tumor growth.
This also includes red meat, especially when grilled or charred, as it contains compounds that have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. It's also high in saturated fats, which can promote inflammation. Finally, always make sure that if you are eating meat of any kind that it is thoroughly cooked through.
In this article we cover essential diet tips for breast cancer patients, including lists of foods and drinks to include and avoid.
2. Foods with a High Risk of Food Poisoning
With any sort of cancer, chemotherapy can leave you with a low immunity and make you immunocompromised. As a result, it is strongly recommended to try your best to avoid foods that have a higher rate of leading to food poisoning. Some of these food items include:
- Unpasteurized milk or yogurt made from unpasteurized milk. Soft cheeses such as brie, camembert or gorgonzola should be avoided or enjoyed in moderation.
- Eggs (make sure they are always fully cooked if you are going to eat them).
- Pâté (unless it’s from a can).
- Rare or undercooked meat and poultry.
- Uncooked shellfish.
- Raw or lightly-cooked beansprouts.
3. Trans Fats
Found in fried foods, baked goods and some margarine, trans fats can promote inflammation and are associated with an increased risk of cancer. They may also impair brain function and overall health.
4. Sugary Foods and Beverages
High sugar intake can lead to elevated insulin levels and increased inflammation, which may worsen symptoms and reduce the effectiveness of treatments. Sugary foods can also contribute to weight gain, a risk factor for several types of cancer.
5. Artificial Sweeteners
On the subject of sugar, some artificial sweeteners have been linked to an increased risk of cancer, though research is still ongoing. It's better to avoid these chemicals, especially as they can have other negative effects on health.
6. Salt-preserved or High Sodium Foods
Foods like pickles, salted fish and certain canned goods contain high levels of salt, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues. Excess salt can also increase inflammation and may impact overall health, leading to high blood pressure and increased fluid retention. This can present problems for brain tumor patients.
7. Alcohol
Alcohol consumption can lead to increased inflammation and may interfere with the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients. It also weakens the immune system, which is crucial when fighting cancer. Some studies also show that alcohol can increase the risk of seizures in patients with brain tumors.
8. Refined Carbohydrates
Foods like white bread, white rice and pastries cause spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels, leading to increased inflammation and potential interference with cancer treatments. Refined Carbohydrates should be consumed in moderation.
9. Processed Foods
Processed foods, such as cereal, chips, packaged snacks, frozen dinners and candy, contain unhealthy fats, excessive sugars and artificial additives that can contribute to inflammation and other health issues.
10. Unwashed Foods
Studies show that thousands of people become ill from pesticide poisonings every year, with an increased link to Parkinson's disease, cancer, diabetes and many more health problems. Another recent study by Environmental Health found evidence linking pesticides to increased risks of cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. As a result, medical professionals suggest making sure that any foods, like fruits and vegetables, are thoroughly washed before eating to avoid consuming chemicals and pesticides.
Treatment Options for Brain Tumors
Surgery is often the first-line treatment, aiming to remove as much of the tumor as possible. It is most effective for tumors that are accessible and well-defined.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and destroy tumor cells. This treatment is particularly useful for tumors that cannot be completely removed by surgery or for those in delicate areas of the brain.
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. These drugs can be administered orally, intravenously or directly into the cerebrospinal fluid.
Targeted therapy is a more recent approach that involves drugs designed to target specific genetic mutations driving tumor growth. Ojemda (tovorafenib) is a new targeted therapy approved for pediatric low-grade glioma (LGG) with BRAF mutations. This kinase inhibitor blocks the abnormal signaling pathways in tumor cells, offering a new treatment option for children with relapsed or refractory LGG.
Each treatment approach is tailored to the individual patient, often involving a combination of therapies to maximize effectiveness and manage side effects.
Read on to learn about 10 foods to avoid with GIST.
