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The German tumor specialist Volkmar Nüssler explains why a primarily vegetarian diet helps to prevent and fight tumors
On average, a third of all tumors can be prevented through a healthy lifestyle and good nutrition,” writes the renowned German cancer specialist Volkmar Nüssler in his new book “Strong against cancer.” In his opinion, we should pay particular attention to the intestines and thus our diet Because this is where we would have the greatest influence in preventing cancer – even if many other factors play a role in the development of cancer cells, such as lifestyle, chronic inflammation, viruses, chemicals, radiation and genes.
According to Nüssler, cooking yourself is an important prerequisite if you want to eat healthily. This is the only way to have maximum influence on the food used and its preparation. For the doctor, a good guideline for healthy eating is the philosophy of top chefs: “They only use fresh ingredients from organic production and prefer regional and seasonal food.” In addition, today’s top cuisine prefers shortened cooking times, avoids excessive salting and primarily uses high-quality vegetable fat. “Good chefs also like to season with fresh herbs and spices of the best quality or with lemon juice and high-quality vinegar,” adds Nüssler.
For all of these reasons, the long-time head of the Munich Tumor Center has developed 50 recipes with top chefs for his current book, which provide insight into how you can reduce your risk of cancer through proper nutrition or support the effects of cancer therapy.
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Nüssler advises against untargeted consumption of nutritional supplements (NEM). Although the use of individual NEM can definitely make sense in the case of a tumor, as cancer or the therapy can cause an increased need for nutrients, says Nüssler. However, patients should definitely discuss with their doctors which nutritional supplements may be helpful in individual cases.
A predominantly vegetarian diet is definitely recommended if you want to avoid cancer or fight tumors. The reason: “The effects of a vegetarian diet on the risk of developing cancer have already been studied many times – it has repeatedly been shown that it has a protective effect.” He also recommends that vegetarians not avoid eggs and dairy products, as, according to current studies, these products could also help minimize the risk of cancer. “It has also been shown that additional consumption of fish can help prevent tumors in the respiratory and urinary tract in particular,” said the cancer specialist.
The tumor specialist definitely cannot recommend a vegan diet “because it is always associated with the risk of malnutrition.” Vegans often develop a deficiency in vitamin B12 and iron. In addition, this form of nutrition is often associated with a deficit in proteins, amino acids, long-chain omega-3 fatty acids as well as riboflavin, calcium, iodine, zinc and selenium.
Diets that result in a lack of micro- and macronutrients are particularly problematic for cancer patients. “Malnutrition is a common problem among cancer patients and can lead, among other things, to longer hospital stays, increased complications during therapy and a poorer general prognosis,” warns Nüssler.
Book tip: “Strong against cancer” by Volkmar Nüssler, Westend-Verlag, 18.50 euros
Ulrike Griessl