Healthy Habits To Embrace If You Have Liver Cancer

Getting diagnosed with liver cancer can be frightening and overwhelming. While treatment is crucial, making positive lifestyle changes can also help you cope physically and emotionally. By eating nutritious foods, exercising, reducing alcohol intake, managing stress, and getting quality sleep, you can improve your health during this challenging time. Even small steps to take care of your overall well-being can make a big difference. Focus on incorporating healthy habits into your daily routine. Having a good support system is also very important during this difficult time.

The Role of Diet in Managing Liver Cancer

Eating a balanced, liver-healthy diet is vital for your health and can support you throughout liver cancer treatment. Your doctor may recommend emphasising fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and low-fat dairy while limiting saturated fats, refined carbs, salt and sugar. Staying hydrated is also important.

Managing symptoms like nausea or loss of appetite with smaller, frequent meals and nutritional supplements can help ensure you get adequate nutrition. Consulting with a nutritionist tailored guidance. Completely avoiding alcohol is typically recommended, as it is hard on the liver. Look into services like meal delivery if you need help shopping and preparing food. Consider using apps or meeting with a dietitian for personalised meal planning.

The Power of Antioxidants

Antioxidants like vitamins C and E, selenium and carotenoids may provide health benefits by preventing cell damage. While they do not cure cancer, diets high in antioxidant-rich foods like vegetables, fruits and tea are considered healthy.

However, always check with your liver cancer specialist before taking antioxidants or supplements. Focus on getting antioxidants from whole food sources like berries, tomatoes, cruciferous vegetables and nuts whenever possible. Be cautious about taking antioxidant supplements without consulting your doctor first.

Lifestyle Changes

Beyond diet, other lifestyle factors impact your health with liver cancer. Increasing mental well-being through meditation and yoga can help reduce stress. Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol supports your overall health. Getting regular exercise like walking, swimming or biking has physical and mental benefits, including reducing fatigue, improving sleep, lifting mood and increasing appetite.

Starting a new hobby that is relaxing like reading, woodworking or listening to music can also be beneficial. Consider joining a support group to connect with others going through similar experiences. Set small, manageable goals each day to stay motivated.

Hobbies and Activities to Nurture

Liver cancer treatment can cause side effects like brain fog, making engaging in activities more difficult. Choosing a hobby that is easy and calming can be helpful. Gentle options include walking, dancing, gardening, playing board games, painting or just going outside.

Finding an activity you enjoy and discussing any new physical pursuits with your healthcare team is important. Staying engaged and active can lift your mood. Don't be too hard on yourself on days when you don't feel up to your usual activities. Spending time with pets can also be very soothing.

The Vital Role of Sleep

Getting quality sleep may become more challenging with cancer. Practising good sleep hygiene by unwinding before bed, limiting electronics, and maintaining a cool, quiet sleeping area can help. Relaxation techniques like meditation, warm drinks, reading and listening to calm music may also promote restful sleep.

Avoid eating right before bed or consuming caffeinated beverages. Napping during the day can help restore your energy levels. Prioritising sleep is vital for your health. Keep a consistent pre-bedtime routine and stick to a regular sleep schedule. Let your liver cancer specialist know if you continue having significant issues with sleep.

Conclusion

Although liver cancer treatment is essential, making positive lifestyle changes can also support you during this difficult time. Eating nutritious food, exercising, reducing stress, engaging in hobbies and getting quality sleep are healthy habits to embrace.

Even small steps to take care of your overall well-being can go a long way to improve your physical health and emotional outlook. Focus on rest, proper nutrition and self-care. Don't be afraid to ask your loved ones for help during this challenging period. You can move forward with the right support system and healthy habits.

References

• https://www.healthline.com/health/cancer/liver-cancer-diet-foods
• https://www.onelivertolove.com/living-healthy-liver-cancer