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Posted on Thursday, Jun 23, 2011

Load Up on Protein to Slow Growth of Mesothelioma Tumors

In a new study from the British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, researchers found that eating a diet low in carbohydrates and high in protein may slow the growth of tumors.  Although the study was conducted on mice, the scientists involved believe that the findings are “definitive enough that an effect in humans can be considered.”  Stopping tumor growth and preventing metastasis in cancers, especially mesothelioma which is highly aggressive and is resistant to many cancer treatments, is critical for increasing survival in patients.

For the close to 3,000 Americans diagnosed with mesothelioma each year, the potential that a change in their diet can make a difference in the aggressiveness of the cancer is encouraging.   Mesothelioma is a rare, incurable cancer that is caused by breathing in asbestos fibers.   Although symptoms from the cancer can be treated with surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation, specialists in the field have not yet found an effective, consistent therapy to halt the tumor growth.

The findings published in Cancer Research, a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research, suggest that tumor cells need significantly more glucose to grow and thrive, and carbohydrates increase both blood glucose and insulin levels promoting tumor growth.  Thus, increasing protein intake and lowering carbohydrates in the diet results in consistently slower tumor growth.

Cancer Research editor-in-chief George Prendergast, Ph.D., CEO of the Lankenau Institute for Medical Research said “Many cancer patients are interested in making changes in areas that they can control, and this study definitely lends credence to the idea that a change in diet can be beneficial.”  Prendergast was not involved in the study.

The successful diet used in the study was similar to the “South Beach Diet,” but slightly higher in protein, with 15 percent carbohydrate, 58 percent protein and 26 percent fat.   High protein foods include peanut butter, nuts, lean red meat, lean chicken, seafood, cheese, yogurt, milk, beans, and whole grains.  Also, protein bars and shakes are on the market for convenient meals or snacks.

A sample daily menu for a low carb/high protein diet:
Breakfast.  Scrambled eggs with grilled lean bacon, whole wheat bread, plus an orange juice and a decaffeinated coffee or tea.

Lunch. Tuna salad made from 1 small can tuna in water, salad with romaine lettuce, cucumber, tomato, avocado and celery. Serve with an olive oil/vinegar dressing.

Dinner.  Grilled chicken breast with, steamed asparagus and brown rice.

Mesothelioma patients may struggle with loss of appetite, however taking in proper nutrients, in the recommended balance, can be critical to fighting the cancer.  Check with your physician prior to making any major changes to your diet.