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While many cancers receive significant attention, childhood cancer remains a silent epidemic that deserves greater awareness. It’s a time to educate ourselves and support the fight against children’s cancer, a still-rare enough disease as yet that is leading cause of disease-related deaths in children with instances of some forms of lymphomas increasing. The most common cancers diagnosed in children aged 0-14 years include leukemias, lymphomas, and central nervous system tumors like brain tumors. After all, much good news exists within the history of cancer among children and adolescents, whose outlook has drastically improved over the past fifty years.
The role of nutrition in cancer prevention
When discussing cancer prevention, you often hear about “cancer-fighting foods.” These foods are typically rich in phytochemicals—plant compounds that have the potential to prevent chronic diseases, including cancer. Foods frequently mentioned in this context include berries, broccoli, tomatoes, walnuts, and a variety of other fruits and vegetables.
Peanuts have garnered attention for their cancer-fighting properties. Research indicates that regularly consuming nuts, including peanuts, is associated with a lower risk of developing cancer. A notable 2020 study found that just two servings of peanuts or peanut butter each week could reduce the risk of benign breast disease in young adults by as much as 39%. Additionally, a 2024 study highlighted that the polyphenol-rich skins of peanuts may inhibit the growth and proliferation of childhood leukemia cells, successfully reducing their proliferation for up to 72 hours after application. Procyanidins found in peanuts may help combat cancer by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the growth and division of cancer cells. Furthermore, ensuring adequate folate intake during pregnancy has been linked to reduced risks of leukemia and brain tumors in children.
Nutrition during treatment
Proper nutrition is crucial for children undergoing cancer treatment, as it helps the body heal and recover. You may already know the benefits of peanuts for children, but you may not know how powerful they can be against diseases like cancer. However, the side effects of treatment, along with changes in taste and emotional challenges, can complicate nutritional intake. It’s essential for parents to work closely with healthcare providers to tailor nutritional plans that address their child’s specific needs during therapy.
Key nutritional goals should focus on increasing the intake of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
Benefits of proper nutrition
Maintaining good nutrition during treatment offers several benefits:
- Improved quality of life: Proper nutrition can enhance a child’s well-being, helping them feel better and experience fewer side effects from treatment.
- Preventing treatment delays: Well-nourished children are often better equipped to tolerate chemotherapy or radiation, which can reduce the likelihood of treatment interruptions.
- Accelerated recovery: Protein plays a vital role in tissue repair and growth, allowing children to recover from side effects more quickly.
- Lower risk of infection: A strong immune system is crucial during treatment, and adequate protein intake can help bolster the body’s defenses against infections.
Conclusion
As advancements in therapies continue to improve the outlook for children facing cancer, nutrition remains a powerful ally in both prevention and treatment. Focusing on a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can make a significant difference in the lives of affected children and their families. By prioritizing nutrition, we can support our children’s health and resilience during these challenging times.