Nutritional Oncology is a burgeoning field that explores the intricate relationship between nutrition and cancer - from prevention through to survivorship. It operates on the premise that dietary choices and nutritional status can significantly impact cancer risk, the progression of the disease, and the overall quality of life of individuals undergoing cancer treatment.
Central to this discipline is the understanding that certain foods and nutrients can influence the mechanisms by which cancer cells grow and spread. For instance, diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can offer protective benefits due to their high content of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. These components are known to combat oxidative stress and inflammation, two processes intimately linked with cancer development and progression.
Conversely, nutritional oncology also scrutinizes the detrimental impact of poor dietary habits, such as high consumption of processed and red meats, sugary drinks, and trans fats, which are associated with an increased risk of certain types of cancer. Research in this field is also dedicated to studying the effects of specific nutrients and dietary patterns on cancer treatment outcomes, including how they might mitigate side effects, enhance the efficacy of treatments, and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.