Guest Blogger Jillian McKee on: How Proper Diet Can Improve Cancer Recovery

Jillian McKee is a complementary medicine advocate. Since 2009 she has been working with the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance. She spends much of her time continuing her efforts engaging in outreach programs and continuing to spread the word about alternative medicine and its role on cancer treatment. 

How Proper Diet Can Improve Cancer Recovery

A positive diagnosis for cancer can be an emotionally challenging time for a loved one and their family. While all cancer patients should receive treatment under a certified healthcare provider, a number of steps, such as a nutritious diet, can reduce the risk and progress of some cancers.
It's important to understand how a cancerous growth can propagate inside the human body. Every day thousands of cells in a normal human body become cancerous. Under normal conditions the body is able to eliminate these dangerous cells.
Human cells replicate via a process called mitosis. During mitosis, a cell splits in half and each is an exact copy of its partner. Many things can introduce potential genetic errors when DNA is being copied. Factors such as poor diet, genetics and environmental toxins can increase the risk of transcription errors.
Although a cell with errors will usually die, some are still able to replicate, such as cancerous cells. Cancer has a variety of causes such as one’s environment. For example, mesothelioma is caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers prominent in many work places.
Chemotherapy is a common treatment for cancer, but can cause a variety of negative side effects. Many patients undergoing chemotherapy experience apathy, weight loss, systemic pain, appetite loss, and depression. While many of these side effects cannot be avoided, a proper diet can make a significant impact during one’s recovery phase.
It's important to eat plenty of fresh fruit, lean meat and vegetables. In many cases, chemotherapy reduces functions of the immune system. By eating a diet rich in nutrients and vitamins, it's possible to avoid contracting a secondary sickness.
Many people undergoing cancer treatment can lose up to 40 percent of their body weight. A healthy diet can help one gain weight back during cancer recovery. A great way to do this is by the consumption of healthy fats and high calorie foods. This can include lean meats, dishes with olive oil, and foods containing fish oil. Fish oil has been shown to reduce systemic pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mood.
Cancer can be a challenging time for many people. By following a proper diet, it's possible to boost one's recovery.

To read more of Jillian's article and continued research on diet and cancer treatment visit: 

http://www.mesothelioma.com/blog/authors/jillian/