Essential Foods to Eat and Avoid for Managing Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that mainly affects the plasma cells in the body. Plasma cells are a crucial part of the immune system that help ward off infections by producing antibodies. These antibodies identify and attack infection-causing germs, bacteria, and viruses. Myeloma causes an uncontrolled mutation of the plasma cells. There is no cure for the condition, but it is possible to manage symptoms and improve the outlook.
Foods rich in fiber
One of the significant side effects of multiple myeloma symptoms is constipation. The inability to pass regular bowels is triggered during chemotherapy treatment for cancer. Hence, it becomes necessary to include more foods rich in soluble fibers. Soluble fibers are digested easily, help loosen bowel movements, and also lower the risk of severe pain and uneasiness caused by constipation. Apples, berries, prunes, figs, raisins, peas, carrots, celery, artichokes, beans, broccoli, oatmeal, and assorted whole grains are rich in soluble fibers. It is also advisable to increase water consumption as staying hydrated helps break down bowels and flush out toxins from the body. These changes boost immunity and help speed up recovery.
Foods rich in antioxidants
Cancer causes healthy cells to break down once the mutation spreads, resulting in oxidative stress. Antioxidants prevent these cells from deteriorating and include crucial nutrients like phytochemicals, flavonoids, and carotenoids in nutritious vegetables and fruits. Antioxidants also lower free radicals in the system that cause cell damage and counter any inflammation to manage symptoms of progressing multiple myeloma. Kale, brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, asparagus, and cauliflower are among the best cruciferous vegetables and leafy greens to include daily foods. Many of these veggies boast potent isothiocyanates that counter myeloma. In addition, assorted colored berries, including blueberries, cranberries, strawberries, and cherries, are all rich in natural polyphenols and flavonoids that also fight inflammation and lower the risk of oxidative stress.
Foods rich in iron
A low red blood cell (RBC) count triggered due to anemia is a common complication that one can develop alongside multiple myeloma. This is mainly a side effect of the cancerous plasma cell mutation that constricts the space for healthy RBCs to grow. As a result, cancer can lower hemoglobin count, triggering symptoms like fatigue, persistent weakness, and chills. Tropical fruits, including mangos, guava, pineapples, and papayas, can naturally boost iron intake. Bell peppers, sweet potatoes, kale, and broccoli are potent vegetables to boost iron in the bloodstream. Also, certain meats, seafood, and legumes like red meats, clams, liver, sardines, spinach, beans, chickpeas, lentils, and assorted nuts should form part of an anti-myeloma nutrition.
Foods rich in folates, vitamin D, and Vitamin B12
As multiple myeloma affects the production of red blood cells, it is necessary to include foods rich in a nutrient called folate. Folate is one of the essential B vitamins absorbed by the bone marrow to naturally boost the production of red and white cells. Spinach, asparagus, broccoli, beans, lentils, and black-eyed peas are rich sources of folates that the body can absorb quickly. A vitamin B12 deficiency can also affect the bone marrow’s ability to produce red and white blood cells, thus compromising immunity. Rich dark meats, seafood, and poultry can help replenish the lost B12 vitamins. Popular sources include liver, beef, clams, fish, eggs, and dairy. Even fortified breakfast cereals, soy, flax, and almond milk can boost daily B12 intake to lower the risk of anemia in multiple myeloma. In addition to folates and vitamin B12, it is also important for the body to absorb vitamin D to promote better bone health. Salmon, tuna, sardines, egg yolks, and fortified juices/snacks can boost vitamin D intake among adults. Even stepping out in the sun for just a few minutes allows the body to naturally absorb much-needed vitamin D.
Kidney friendly changes
Multiple Myeloma cancer can develop and spread rapidly, affecting other organs in the body. Kidney disease risk is significantly high; if left unchecked, cancer could cause permanent organ failure. Multiple myeloma triggers a low red blood cell count, thus causing the breakdown of bones. This triggers a rapid release of calcium in the bloodstream forcing the kidneys to work hard to filter out the excess. The cancer plasma cells release excess proteins in the bloodstream that the kidneys struggle to filter out, increasing the risk of organ failure. Nutritionists advise cutting back sodium, potassium, and fatty proteins from daily foods to lower the risk of kidney failure while treating multiple myeloma.
Foods rich in preventive nutrients
One can additionally include many foods in their anti-myeloma nutrition plan to promote a healthy outlook. Plants, vegetables, and fruits are the most nutritious source of certain cytotoxic compounds called ursolic acid. This potent compound boast cancer inhibiting properties from helping slow down the progression of the disease and manage symptoms. Basil and rosemary, two common herbs used for daily cooking, are loaded with these compounds. Blueberries, apples, and cranberry also boast ursolic and pterostilbene to lower the risk of developing tumors. Also, curcumin, a common spice used in several cuisines, boasts many anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
Foods to avoid
Since multiple myeloma attacks the immune system making it weaker, eliminating certain foods that could make you sick is important. Also, it can help lower the risk of multiple myeloma flare-ups. Foods rich in sodium, potassium, processed sugars, raw meats, raw fruits, and raw vegetables with the skin should be avoided for consumption. Even raw slices of seafood like sushi and sashimi are trigger foods that can result in complications as cancer progresses.
It is also essential to boost one’s immunity for the body to counter and slow down the progression of multiple myeloma. Practicing general hygiene, safe cooking, and portioning of meals are all lifestyle changes suggested during multiple myeloma treatment.