Does anyone know of a source of recipes to sustain healthy eating whilst on a neutropenic diet?

[lindsay4]

[Whippit]

Dear Lyndsay

I've been told nothing directly by the way of diet will actually restore the low blood count. The body will do this in its own time but it's a good idea to follow a healthy balanced diet which includes a broad range of foods and take some daily exercise out of doors. I tend to cycle as I can do this despite feeling tired due to my low blood count and it doesn't jar my joints which tend to ache a bit when I'm on chemotherapy.

We all have our own preferences but I prefer a wholesome diet of free-range and/or organic foods. I buy from an online store that specialises in farm-produced meat and organic, seasonal vegetables. I avoid all processed foods so I tend to eat quite simply. If I can't make my own bread I buy from an artisan bakery to avoid the over-processed flours and additives put into supermarket bread. I try to buy local produce so it hasn't lost goodness in transit, and I've also heard if you can get hold of locally honey it contains anti-bodies appropriate to your area. Apparently this helps a lot to counter asthma and similar conditions.

I also drink at least 2 litres of filtered water per day and sometimes as much as 4 as I'm on chemotherapy. The hospital advised this to help flush through the chemicals and alleviate side-effects and, touch wood, so far this has worked for me.

I don't take supplements but many people feel they're a good idea to boost the system. Some people also enjoy juicing and that's good if you would otherwise consume less fruit or vegetables. Some people have heard that sugar is bad but I was told by a consultant, ex Barts, now in Glasgow, that to avoid sugar helps prevent cancer, but once you have it the tumours will convert body fat to sugar to help them grow so to have some sugar in the diet is not a bad thing.

I consulted a homeopath recently. She said to enjoy food, to put out small attractive portions and to spend time eating and enjoying. That seems a good idea to me to enjoy this important part of every day.

I hope you find a way of eating that makes you feel as though you're doing the best you can for both your body and soul.

best wishes.

[Sophieb]

Dear lindsay4

Here at Penny Brohn Cancer Care we can support you on a 1:1 basis perhaps by speaking to one of our Nutritional Therapists here at the centre. We also have our own nutritional guidelines. If you would like to know more about accessing one of our Nutritional Therapists or receive the guidelines, please give our Helpline a call and we will discuss this further with you, our helpline telephone number is 0845 123 23 10.