Top Drinks to Skip
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the infection-fighting cells of the immune system, called lymphocytes. But luckily, this cancer is very treatable. Many people opt for medicines such as Adcetris, which works by targeting and attaching to specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells, delivering a toxic substance that kills the cancer cells.
Drinks to Avoid with Lymphoma
While no single drink or food can single-handedly give you cancer, studies suggest that our diets can have a large impact on increasing our cancer risks. Experts recommend minimizing the consumption of carcinogenic drinks, such as those containing high levels of alcohol or certain chemical additives. This should help in reducing your chance of getting cancer or serious diseases. Carcinogenic drinks to avoid include:
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Alcohol
Alcohol can interfere with your immune system and may have negative interactions with certain chemotherapy drugs. It can also increase the risk of liver damage, especially if you're taking medications metabolized by the liver.
Sugary Drinks
Drinks with high levels of sugar such as sodas and fruit juices can lead to increased inflammation, which may negatively impact your immune system. Sugary drinks can also contribute to obesity, a risk factor for many types of cancer recurrence.
Energy Drinks
Energy drinks are loaded with caffeine and sugar, which can interact with medications, potentially reducing their effectiveness.
High-Caffeine Beverages
High levels of caffeine can have a strong impact on your health. That’s why drinks like strong coffees and certain teas should be consumed in moderation or avoided altogether. They can lead to dehydration and digestive issues, which can exacerbate symptoms of lymphoma or side effects of treatment.
Artificially Sweetened Drinks
Some studies suggest that artificial sweeteners might negatively affect gut health, which is crucial during cancer treatment. Additionally, some artificial sweeteners have been linked to potential health risks, though research is ongoing.
Carbonated Soft Drinks
Carbonated drinks can cause bloating and discomfort, which can worsen already present lymphoma-related digestive issues.
Very Hot Beverages
Extremely hot drinks can irritate the lining of the mouth and throat, which might already be sensitive due to lymphoma treatment like radiation or chemotherapy.
Milkshakes or High-Fat Dairy Drinks
High-fat dairy products can be hard to digest and may contribute to feelings of nausea or discomfort, particularly if you're undergoing chemotherapy.
Treatment Options
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a popular treatment option. However, its effectiveness can vary depending on how advanced the colon cancer is. Chemotherapy drugs kill cancer cells, controlling their growth and relieving symptoms along the way.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapies focus on specific molecules or pathways that cancer cells use to grow and survive, sparing more healthy cells than traditional chemotherapy.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses powerful, focused beams of energy to kill cancer cells. Doctors can use these to accurately target a tumor while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy boosts the body's natural defenses to fight cancer. This can involve drugs that enhance the immune system's response to cancer or treatments that introduce lab-made immune system components.
Surgery
Surgery is less common in lymphoma treatment but may be used to remove a tumor or lymph node for diagnostic purposes or in rare cases, to remove a localized lymphoma.
Medicines
Some people with lymphoma opt for medicines like Adcetris. This drug works by targeting and attaching to specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells, delivering a toxic substance that kills the cancer cells. It is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion, usually at an outpatient clinic.
Drinks to Steer Clear Of
Managing lymphoma involves more than just medical treatments; your diet and lifestyle choices play a crucial role in supporting your overall health and treatment effectiveness. Avoiding certain drinks, such as alcohol, sugary beverages and energy drinks, can help reduce inflammation, support your immune system and improve your response to treatment.
Additionally, opting for healthier alternatives like water, herbal teas and low-sugar drinks can benefit your well-being during treatment. While treatment options like chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation, immunotherapy and medications like Adcetris can be effective in fighting lymphoma, integrating good dietary choices can further support your journey to recovery. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment plans.
