Eating a balanced diet

Having a healthy eating approach to your diet can reduce the risk of cancer reoccurring or development of a new one and reduce risk of other diseases such as heart disease. 

It is important to follow a varied and healthy diet. You can do this by:

• Reducing your intake of high energy foods (high in sugar and fat) and sugary drinks
• Eating at least 5 portions of different coloured fruit and vegetables a day
• Eat less red and processed meats
• Eating less salty foods and processed foods
• Increase your fibre foods (whole grains, pulses, fruit and vegetables)
• Limit your alcohol intake

Diet information

• Food Facts from the British Dietetic Association
• Cancer prevention | WCRF UK

You may need to change the balance of your diet if you are undergoing cancer treatment and or are having problems with eating or unintentional weight loss. It is important to eat plenty of energy foods to help fight infection, minimise weight loss and improve your energy levels.

Advice can be found in the links below.

• Eating Help yourself
• Advice about soft and liquidised food

If you require a dietician referral, ask your GP to refer you to your local service.

You can also watch a video for nutrition advice during your cancer treatment. In the video below, Lorraine, a specialist oncology dietician at The Christie, talks about how cancer patients can be sure they're eating well during treatment.