Healthy Plant-Based Diets to Boost Anti-Cancer Power
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A healthy plant-based diet can help boost cancer resistance. Studies have shown that lacto-ovo vegetarian diets or fish-milk-egg-vegetarian diets can effectively reduce cancer risk and mortality.
The Link Between Plant-Based Diets and Cancer Prevention
Many cancer survivors often ask: “Should I switch to a vegetarian diet?”
Scientific evidence suggests that a strict vegan diet may not be the best option during cancer recovery, as it can lead to deficiencies in protein and vitamin B12. Instead, lacto-ovo vegetarian (includes dairy and eggs) or pescatarian (includes fish) diets provide balanced nutrition while lowering cancer-related risks.
One of the most recommended patterns worldwide is the Mediterranean diet, known for its protective health benefits. It emphasizes a colorful variety of vegetables and fruits, nuts, legumes, whole grains, olive oil, and omega-3–rich fish.
Research Evidence and Data
- UK Study (60,000+ participants):
Consuming at least 7 servings of fruits and vegetables daily, with vegetables more than fruits, was linked to a 42% reduction in overall mortality and a 25% reduction in cancer mortality.
- US JAMA Study (70,000 participants):
- Lacto-ovo vegetarians had a 9% lower mortality rate.
- Pescatarians had a 19% lower mortality rate compared to non-vegetarians.
- Colorectal Cancer Risk:
Pescatarian diets were shown to reduce colorectal cancer incidence by 43%.
Practical Recommendations for Cancer Survivors
- During treatment: No need for drastic dietary changes. Instead, gradually increase intake of vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Consider adding nutrient-dense options like vegetable broths, soy-based beverages, or specialized cancer nutrition formulas to maintain energy.
- After treatment: Continue to increase the proportion of plant-based foods in your diet. This long-term approach enhances antioxidant intake, strengthens immunity, and reduces recurrence risk.
Conclusion
A balanced plant-based diet, especially lacto-ovo vegetarian or pescatarian, offers cancer survivors the dual benefits of adequate nutrition and reduced recurrence risk. By combining Mediterranean-style eating with lifestyle adjustments such as exercise and stress management, patients in Hong Kong can improve recovery outcomes and long-term well-being.
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References
- American Institute for Cancer Research. (2020). Diet, nutrition, physical activity and cancer: a global perspective. AICR.
- Orlich, M. J., & Fraser, G. E. (2014). Vegetarian diets in the Adventist Health Study 2: a review of initial published findings. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 100(Supplement_1), 353S-358S.
- Key, T. J., Appleby, P. N., & Rosell, M. S. (2006). Health effects of vegetarian and vegan diets. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 65(1), 35–41.