Why I’m Moving Towards a Plant-Based Diet During Cancer Treatment

Since starting treatment again, I’ve found myself looking much more closely at the things I can control, along with new findings and research

Cancer brings an enormous amount of uncertainty, and whilst I'm not saying food is a cure, what I eat every day is one area where I can make positive choices for my health, which is why I’m gradually moving towards a plant-based diet

And I do mean towards. I haven’t suddenly become completely vegan.

I still eat fish, and there may be times when I eat other animal products. This isn’t about perfection, restriction or making myself frightened of food. It’s about changing the balance of what is on my plate.

Why more plant-based food?

The World Cancer Research Fund recommends a dietary pattern rich in wholegrains, vegetables, fruit and beans, while limiting red and processed meat. Plant foods also provide fibre, vitamins, minerals and a huge variety of nutrients. 

There is also good reason for me to reduce processed meat. The World Health Organization classifies processed meat as carcinogenic to humans, based particularly on evidence linking it with bowel cancer, while red meat is classified as probably carcinogenic. That doesn't mean an occasional steak caused my breast cancer, or that eating one will make cancer return, but it is enough for me to rethink how regularly those foods feature in my diet. 

What I’m eating instead

Rather than concentrating on everything I’m removing, I’m much more interested in what I'm adding.

My meals now include more beans, chickpeas, lentils, wholegrains, nuts, seeds, vegetables, fruit and plant proteins. I’m also still eating foods such as salmon because protein, vitamin B12, iron and omega-3 fats matter too.

That is especially important while I’m having treatment. A plant-based diet still needs to provide enough protein, calories, iron, B12, calcium and other nutrients, simply cutting out animal foods without replacing those nutrients wouldn't automatically make my diet healthier. 

This isn't an anti-cancer diet - But I'm hoping it helps

I think this distinction is important.

Evidence can't prove that becoming vegan will stop cancer growing, and I would never replace conventional treatment with food or supplements. My medication is treating the cancer risk; my diet is there to support me while I'm being treated and look after my wider long-term health. 

For me, it feels like one small way of taking some control back.

I'm still having chocolate (albiet mostly dark) I'm still eating out. There will still be convenience food and days when the plan goes completely out of the window.

But most of the time?

More plants. More variety. Less processed meat. Plenty of protein.

Not perfect - just hopefully a little better.

Follow my journey

Love Tx