The Cancer-Heart Health Connection
Written by Lori Bumbaco, MS, RDN, CSO, LDN, Oncology Dietitian
Individuals who are living at least five years beyond a cancer diagnosis have significant increases in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and have a 1.3 greater risk of dying from CVD compared to those with no history of cancer. There are several reasons to explain this problem. Aging, direct consequences of cancer treatment, and indirect consequences of cancer and its treatment, such as deconditioning and weight gain. Some cancer treatments can increase the risk for congestive heart failure, cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension, thromboembolism, accelerated atherosclerosis and ischemic heart disease, and peripheral vascular disease and stroke. Clinical practice guidelines include the role of a healthy diet and exercise, which should be included as part of long-term follow-up care.
Nutrition is a known primary component of primary and secondary prevention of CVD, but also for lifestyle recommendations for cancer survivors. Guidelines from national organizations specifically for cancer survivors recommend a diet pattern that is high in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, while also limiting red meat and refined sugars. The guidelines also encourage consuming heart-healthy sources of dietary fat. Specific to the breast cancer population, including dietary fiber and whole soy foods are associated with lowering all-cause mortality.
Making healthy food choices can help us manage heart conditions and in turn improve our health.
In general, a minimally unprocessed whole food diet that emphasizes plant foods is the best approach. Some popular examples to consider are the Mediterranean Diet, the DASH diet, and a vegetarian Diet. Each of these diet patterns are high in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy unsaturated fats. At the same time, they are low in sodium and simple, added sugars. Let’s dive deeper into the specific food and nutrients that are included in a heart healthy eating plan.
Plant proteins are found in beans, lentils, chickpeas, and tofu. Eating these more often than animal proteins can help to lower saturated fat while raising fiber in the diet. Even canned beans are a healthy choice, and experts recommend looking for low sodium options when possible. Aim to include at least 3 servings per week of plant proteins.
Nuts, seeds, and nut butters are all sources of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. Walnuts, pistachios, almonds, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, and flaxseeds are just a few of many great choices. Nut butter or nut and seed butter blends are available as a budget friendly option to enjoy regularly. The experts recommend a few servings per week from this family of nuts and seeds.
Cold water fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, herring, or anchovies are the best sources of marine omega 3 fats. This type of fat is essential in a heart healthy diet to help lowering inflammation. For individuals consuming a vegetarian or vegan diet, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts are the best plant-based sources of omega 3 fats.
Extra virgin olive oil contains healthy fats and antioxidants that can lower LDL and raise HDL cholesterol. Check labels for the freshness of olive oil, because some companies date the time of harvest. Some experts suggest that we consume olive oil within 18 months of its bottle date.
Research is evolving about how achieving a desirable body weight and body composition may reduce the risk of comorbidities and lower biomarkers for cancer risk and prognosis. Understanding the best path towards this might need to include a comprehensive approach unique to your situation. Discuss with your health care team what is best for you.
The Cancer Wellness Center has many services to help you pursue a lifestyle that is both protective against cancer and supports heart health. The Center even has a unique program called Food and Fitness for Wellness that integrates a lifestyle approach for those finished with cancer treatment and ready to embrace mind and body wellness.
