Latest update September 6th, 2026 7:34 PM
Cancer and healthy lifestyle changes
By Rehanna Ramsay
Kaieteur News – Like most terminal illnesses, your life changes drastically after a cancer diagnosis—there are certain elements that must change to help you fight off the deadly condition. And of course, the specifics of those changes may as it depends on the type of cancer you are diagnosed with.
This week, Obstetrician/Gynecologist (OBGYN) and Associate Oncologist, Dr. Raveendranath Ichangod shed some light on the lifestyle changes pertinent for the treatment of a person who has cancer.
Speaking on Kaieteur Radio’s ‘Your Health Matters’ programme recently, Dr. Ichangod talked about the dietary changes and medical adjustments that must be made in order for a person to successfully beat the disease. The interview came ahead of Breast Cancer Awareness month which is held annually in October. While overcoming cancer is not guaranteed, these lifestyle changes may heighten and extend a person’s life.
According to Dr. Ichangod, dietary changes are necessary to manage and possibly beat the terminal illness. He noted that the body goes through many changes with cancer especially when a patient is placed on treatment.
He noted that while the body needs enough calories and nutrients to stay strong, sicknesses like cancer can make it hard “because sometimes, you just won’t feel like eating.”
However, Dr. Ichangod said, “you must eat to maintain your strength so there are simple foods which are easy and appetising.”
He explained, “It’s a good time to plan for the days or speak with a nutritionist on how to plan your diet around your treatment for cancer. Fresh fruits and vegetables such as callaloo, tomatoes, walnuts, and grapes are healthy options. Stay away from canned food or lots of chemically treated foods. Red meat is definitely not an option. Organic food is especially good, avoid food with added sugars or preservatives.”
The Doctor stressed that in his view, a sugary diet serves to further complicate the condition since all kinds of cells, including cancer cells, depend on blood sugar (glucose) for energy.
“So I would say to limit the sugar content, caffeine, and salt in your diet… Staying hydrated also makes cancer treatment side effects less severe and lowers your chances of missing or delaying cancer treatments so drinking water is always good,” Dr. Ichangod stated.
Further, Dr. Ichangod urged sticking with a balanced diet with lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy.
“Some people have ‘special’ diets that they say will help treat cancer or keep it from coming back. Maybe you’ve heard that you should go vegan, vegetarian, or start a raw diet. Before you make any major changes, talk to your doctor,” he advised.
When it comes to physical activity, Dr. Ichangod said active people have lower cancer risks because they engage in other healthy lifestyle behaviours, “Once a person is diagnosed and on treatment, that person may be forced to limit their exercise.”
He continued, “Exercise is always a good way to keep the body functioning normally but the physical activity should be done as much as possible because too much time spent resting or sitting can cause loss of body function, muscle weakness, and reduced range of motion.”
The Doctor, therefore, urged cancer patients to be as physically active as possible before, during, and after cancer treatment. Another factor that must be stressed, Dr. Ichangod said, is the need to visit your doctor for regular screening. He emphasised regular screening and visits with a Doctor can lead to early detection, which can save lives.
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