| "Incorporating a variety of plant-based foods into your diet can have some real benefits, especially when you're dealing with bowel health. You do not have to go completely vegetarian or vegan, but adding these foods can provide essential nutrients and support your wellbeing.
Plant-based foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre that keep you healthy. During treatment, when your body may be under additional stress, these foods can be especially beneficial. They can help boost your immune system, help with digestion, and give you the energy you need to repair.
In the context of bowel cancer where the bowel may have issues with digestion during treatment and there is gastric upset, it's worth mentioning the concept of low-fibre plant-based foods. These are foods that are gentle on the digestive system, reducing the amount of undigested material passing through the intestines. This can help alleviate discomfort.
Low-fibre foods include cooked peeled vegetables, well-cooked grains like rice and oats, and soft peeled and de-seeded fruits. As always, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered nutritionist or dietitian who can provide personalised dietary recommendations tailored to your specific health needs and treatment plan." ~ Teresa, Bowel Cancer Australia Bowel Care Nutritionist.
For further information on high-fibre and low-fibre diets and recipes visit the Bowel Cancer Australia website or contact one of our friendly Bowel Care Nutritionists. | 