All Muslims around the world observe Ramadan. This is a month of fasting and prayers. Like all, cancer patients also wish to fast.

Oncologists do not recommend fasting during treatment, but those whose treatment is complete can do fasting. During treatment because of chemotherapy or other radiations, cancer patients undergo some side effects like-

• Diarrhea
  
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Loss of taste
• Vomiting
• Nausea

Before Ramadan, cancer patients should consult with the oncologists whether he/she can do fasting or not.

Cancer treatment affects appetite, metabolism, and body weight. During fasting, a proper diet is essential for a cancer patient.

SHOULD EAT:

Vegetables
Vegetables are a source of high vitamins and minerals.

For vitamins and fiber: Tomato, carrots, pumpkin, peas, turnip.
For healthy plant chemicals: cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli.
For calcium and iron: All green leafy vegetables.
For lowering blood sugar levels: Bitter gourd

Carbohydrates
Rice, noodles, potatoes, beans, dairy products and wholegrain breads. For anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties honey can be consumed.

Protein
Fish, egg, poultry, lean meat, dairy products, nuts, chickpeas, fish and soy food.

Healthy fat
Olive oil, walnut, avocados.

Fruits
For vitamin C: like oranges.
For vitamins and fiber: mangoes, bananas, pears, strawberries, and kiwi.
For energy: guava, apricot and raisin.

SHOULD NOT EAT:

Ø  Processed food.
Ø  Red meat.
Ø  Deep fried food.
Ø  Sugary and carbonated drink.
Ø  Excessive intake of salt.

Most of us prefer to drink tea or coffee daily. During Ramadan, these shouldn’t be taken during sehri. If someone wishes, he can consume after iftar. One should drink at least 1-2 litres of water daily.

References:

• https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/cancer/cancer-diet-foods-to-add-and-avoid-during-cancer-treatment
• https://www.cancer.net/blog/2018-06/eid-al-fitr-and-cancer-how-keep-foods-safe-when-ramadan-ends
• https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO.2008.19.7541
• https://www.neolife.com.tr/en/cancer-and-the-month-of-ramadan/#:~:text=Take%20special%20care%20to%20consume,Avoid%20sugary%20and%20carbonated%20drinks.
• https://www.healthxchange.sg/cancer/food-nutrition/top-foods-cancer-patients
• https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/what-to-know-about-fasting-during-cancer-treatment.h00-159694389.html#:~:text=MD%20Anderson%20dietitians%20recommend%20eating,%2C%20beans%2C%20nuts%20and%20seeds.
• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324193

Image Source:

• www.medanta.org
• www.britannica.com