Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is cancer of the white blood cells (WBCs). Since WBCs, or lymphocytes, form a crucial part of the immune system, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma can adversely affect the disease-fighting ability of an individual. It is more common in adults than children and typically originates in the lymph nodes. However, in certain cases, the skin can also get affected due to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
What non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma should not eat
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a disorder of the immune system. Medications and radiation therapy are implemented to treat non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, further lowering the immunity. Thus, certain food items can worsen the situation must be avoided.
- Fast foods
Processed foods, fries, burgers, etc. are rich in sugars as well as refined oils and low in fiber diet can significantly change the body immunity. Research has shown that fast foods can make your immune system at high alertness even in the absence of pathogens. - Mono-sodium glutamate (MSG)
MSG is added to certain foods to enhance its taste. MSG can adversely affect immunity by disrupting the normal functioning of important organs of the immune system such as the thymus and the spleen. Moreover, it increases oxidative stress in the body. - Caffeine
Caffeine is known to increase the levels of cortisol in the body. Higher cortisol levels reduce the body’s immunity. It also lowers immunity by decreasing the production of T-cells, interleukin production and suppressing lymphocytes. - Refined oil
The refining process can remove some nutrients and change the structure of some other molecules in oils. This can also lower immunity. However, not all oils are refined and you can check with your doctor on the most suitable oils for you. - Alcohol
Alcohol is known to lower immunity by lowering the number of T&B lymphocytes and reducing the production of cytokines and macrophages. Alcohol also lowers the concentration of immunoglobulin in the body. Moreover, it disturbs the sleep cycle. Alcoholic beverages also interfere with certain medications and their effectiveness. Thus, it is best to avoid the consumption of alcohol when diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. - Excessive sugar intake
Excessive sugar stimulates the growth of pathogenic bacteria in your gut. It also reduces the intake of vitamin C by the immune cells. Vitamin C is essentially required for maintaining a healthy immune system. Thus, snacks which are rich in sugar should be avoided. - Artificially ripened fruits
Artificially ripened fruits and vegetables contain a higher amount of pectin which can destabilize the gut microbiota composition. Gut microbiota are very important in boosting the body`s disease fighting capability. - Avoid blackberry, pomegranate
Certain fruits such as some variety of grapes, blackberry and pomegranate can reduce the effectiveness of drugs by preventing their proper absorption in the body.
One must refrain from food items that can lower the immunity and disturb the normal homeostatic balance of the gut microbiota when diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. A diet plan can be adopted after a discussion with the doctor.
