Nourishing Recovery: Why Better Nutrition Habits Matter for Cancer Survivors

For cancer survivors, healing doesn’t end when treatment does. Nutrition plays a powerful role in long-term recovery, helping to reduce the risk of recurrence, improve quality of life, and empower survivors to take control of their health.

Dawn Mussallem, D.O., a Mayo Clinic internal medicine physician and 21-year stage IV cancer survivor, calls cancer “a teachable moment” for making meaningful lifestyle changes. “Living a healthy lifestyle focused on nutrition and physical activity during and after a cancer diagnosis can be empowering,” she says.

A balanced, whole-food, plant-based diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, and nuts supports overall health and may help prevent cancer recurrence. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale are especially beneficial due to their fiber and phytochemicals.

"This diet pattern is essential for optimal health and is good for prevention, treatment and reversal of some chronic diseases, not just cancer,” says Dr. Mussallem

Berries are packed with antioxidants and fiber. Dr. Mussallem recommends eating ½ to 1 cup of berries every day—fresh or frozen.

"Breast cancer survivors who had two servings of berries per week demonstrated a 25% improved breast cancer-specific survival,” she notes

3. Limit Red Meat and Avoid Processed Meats

Processed meats like bacon and deli meats are classified as Group 1 carcinogens. Red meat (beef, pork, lamb) should be limited to no more than 12 ounces per week.

4. Cut Back on Saturated Fats

Replace saturated fats (found in butter, cheese, and fatty meats) with healthier fats like those in nuts and seeds. Studies show that reducing saturated fat can lower the risk of cancer recurrence, especially in breast and prostate cancer

Alcohol is a known carcinogen linked to at least seven types of cancer. Dr. Mussallem advises complete avoidance for cancer prevention and survivorship.

6. Skip Sugary and Processed Beverages

Fruit juices and sodas are high in sugar and low in nutrients. Whole fruits are a better choice, offering fiber and antioxidants without the sugar spike.

“Eat the whole fruit. Don’t waste your money on the juice,” Dr. Mussallem advises

Over 70% of cancer survivors take dietary supplements, but many are unnecessary or even harmful. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.

“There are multiple studies that show that some supplements can actually cause harm,” warns Dr. Mussallem

Changing lifelong eating habits can feel overwhelming, but small, consistent steps can lead to lasting change. Talk to your care team about creating a personalized nutrition plan, and lean on your support network to stay motivated.

"As a cancer survivor, I get excited when I make my own healthy plant-based meals and when I work with patients," says Dr. Mussallem. "It's exciting to be able to feed and nurture the body. And patients feel better while on a whole-food, plant-predominant diet. To me, that's the most important outcome: to enjoy life and feel good."