Eat – HOPE the Lifestyle

Fuel to Fight.

It is no longer a conspiracy nor a ‘myth to be busted’ like many of the leading cancer hospitals websites will display, that our overall health is directly impacted by our diet. Depending on what we are consuming daily , it can either help our immune system operate at an optimum level or it can become a burden on our systems, draining the immune system's resources.

‘The food you eat can either be the safest and most powerful form of medicine or the slowest form of poison’- Ann Wigmore

Nutrition Directly Impacts our Immune System

1- Essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A, C, D, E, zinc, and selenium, are vital for the development and function of immune cells. For example, vitamin C supports the function of white blood cells, while vitamin D is important for immune regulation.

2- Phytochemicals are natural compounds found in plant foods, also play a powerful role in supporting the immune system and can have a direct impact on blocking the promotion and progression of cancer.These include flavonoids, carotenoids, and sulfur-containing compounds that help regulate inflammation, enhance detoxification, and support communication between immune cells. Found abundantly in colorful fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices, phytochemicals strengthen the body’s defenses at a cellular level and contribute to long-term resilience.

3- Antioxidants from fruits and vegetables help protect immune cells from oxidative stress, which can impair their function. A diet rich in antioxidants can enhance the body’s ability to respond to infections and any other threats i.e cancer.

4- The gut microbiome plays a significant role in immune function. A diet high in fiber from fruits and vegetables promotes a healthy gut microbiome, which is linked to a stronger immune response.

5- Proteins are essential for the production of antibodies and immune cells. Adequate protein intake supports the body’s ability to fight infections and recover from illness.

6- Certain foods, such as those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, can help reduce chronic inflammation, which is beneficial for immune health. Conversely, a diet high in processed foods and sugars can promote inflammation.

7- Proper hydration is important for overall health and immune function. Water helps transport nutrients and remove toxins, supporting the body's defenses.

8- And of course, being underweight or obese can impair immune function. Ensuring a balanced diet helps maintain a healthy weight, which is important for optimal immune response.

A diet high in processed foods and sugar is going to be lacking in the vital minerals and nutrients our immune systems need to function optimally.

The Mitochondria–Cancer Connection

As it is now better understood that cancer is a metabolic disease that starts in the mitochondria. Think of the mitochondria as the cells batteries that through the food we eat, gets used as fuel to be converted into energy.. They are at the very centre of most of our cells, providing the correct energy to keep everything running smoothly, they also help with the important task of managing how cells grow and die, which as we know is one of the malfunctions of cancer cells, their ability to divide and replicate at a rapid and unstoppable rate avoiding programmed cell death (apoptosis).

Here is how we contribute to the damage of the mitochondria and therefore their ability to do their jobs correctly.