It was several months into her treatment for breast cancer that my mom began researching “miracle foods.”
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So we went on the hunt for a particular type of mushroom. She filled the fridge with all kinds of berries, and cut back on ice cream, her favorite treat. Embracing the idea of food as medicine — adding “healthy diet” to her long list of cancer-fighting strategies — was worth a shot, she figured.
My mom’s faith in food wasn’t entirely off base. Research shows it’s possible to lower your risk of cancer by as much as 20% with a healthy diet. But, could eating the right foods actually cure cancer?
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I turned to UVA Health registered dietitian and certified oncology specialist Carole Havrila for more information about the potential of food as medicine in cancer treatment. She stressed one key point right from the start.
Putting your faith in food — embracing the idea of food as medicine — isn’t a bad thing. Good nutrition is a critical part of a healthy lifestyle. But eating healthy is not a quick fix or miracle cure for cancer or any other disease. You have to play the long game to keep your body well. Eat right. Move more. Take care of you.
