People with kidney cancer should eat lots of fresh vegetables and whole grains, limit processed foods, and avoid drinking alcohol.
Kidney cancer is the second most common urological cancer in Vietnam, with 2,240 new cases and 1,110 deaths in 2022, according to the World Cancer Registry (Globocan). Although there is no specific diet for kidney cancer, good eating habits help promote health and help control side effects during treatment.
Should eat
A balanced, nutritious diet is necessary for everyone, especially people with kidney cancer. Each patient’s nutritional needs may depend on the treatment and stage of cancer, but there are some foods that any patient can include in their meals.
Vegetables and fruits: This is a source of fiber and many essential vitamins and minerals. Vegetables and fruits can also help lower cholesterol levels and control blood sugar.
People with kidney cancer should aim to eat 4 servings of fruit and 5 servings of vegetables from a variety of sources each day. Some sample serving sizes include one medium apple, 6 small carrots, 16 grapes, half a medium potato, and a bowl of raw leafy greens.
Fresh fruits and vegetables provide many nutrients that are beneficial to the health of cancer patients. Image: Bao Bao
Whole grains: Wholemeal bread, brown rice and wholemeal pasta are good sources of energy because they are rich in fiber, iron and B vitamins. However, some whole grains such as wholemeal bread can be high in phosphorus. Consuming too much phosphorus when the kidneys are not working properly can cause a number of health problems. The reason is because the kidneys help balance the amount of phosphorus in the body.
Phosphorus is found in many foods and small amounts of this mineral are acceptable even in kidney cancer. However, patients should still consult their doctor and follow appropriate dosage instructions.
Protein: This is an essential part of everyone’s diet, helping to build and maintain muscle mass. However, too much protein in people with kidney cancer can cause waste to build up in the blood, causing symptoms such as fatigue, nausea and headaches. Patients should talk to their doctor or nutritionist about the best amount and type of protein to include in their diet.
Should be avoided
Certain foods may increase your risk of kidney-related complications. If you can’t avoid these foods or habits, try to limit your intake when possible.
Foods high in salt: Too much salt can disrupt the body’s fluid balance and lead to high blood pressure. This can worsen symptoms of reduced kidney function.
Prepared foods: Patients should try to limit fast food and salty snacks such as French fries, cold cuts, and sausages because they contain a lot of sodium. Whenever possible, use herbs and spices for flavor instead of salt.
Foods high in phosphorus: This natural mineral is essential for the body in many ways, including contributing to bone strength. But in people with reduced kidney function due to cancer, consuming too much phosphorus can weaken bones, causing other side effects. Doctors may advise patients to reduce their intake of foods rich in phosphorus such as cocoa, beans, bran cereals, some dairy products, and oysters.
Drinking too much water: This habit can also cause problems for people with kidney cancer. Impaired kidney function affects urine production and causes the body to retain too much fluid. Patients should monitor their fluid intake so that it is not too much.
Prepared foods and beverages: Risk of cancer and death is associated with such ultra-processed foods. People with kidney cancer should avoid bread, packaged snacks, soft drinks and sugary drinks, deli meats, instant noodles, and frozen ready meals.
Alcoholic beverages: Beer and wine can interact with cancer treatment drugs. There is also some evidence that drinking alcohol may increase the risk of cancer recurrence and death.