Diets for Kidney Cancer

Kidneys serve a vital function of the human body, filtering blood and removing waste products from the body. When cancer cells develop, the kidneys no longer work and support the body. The National Cancer Institute estimates that doctors diagnose 49,096 new kidney cancer cases in the United States and approximately 11,033 people die from this disease. While doctors do not recommend specific diets for kidney cancer, they provide dietary guidelines of things that help during treatment and during recovery.

Eat Vitamin-Rich Foods

People suffering from kidney cancer and undergoing cancer therapy should eat a vitamin-rich diet. Diets for kidney cancer should include foods containing vitamins A and C and fiber. The Kidney Cancer Association says that the foods strengthen patients, prevent tissue breakdowns and infections and help normal tissues regenerate. Foods containing these vital nutrients include fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Nutritionists who specialize in cancer diets can help create a meal plan for patients.

Consume Hydrating Beverages

Cancer treatments cause dehydration and constipation in many patients. A kidney cancer diet consists of keeping hydrated, which assists renal functions. If kidney cancer sufferers have surgery, Moffit Cancer Center says patients should concentrate on drinking 7 to 10 ounces of clear liquids like water, juice, milk, broth, coffee and tea for at least 3 to 5 days. Carbonated beverages and alcohol have the opposite effect, interfering with liver functions and dehydrating the kidneys. Limit consumption of these beverages to special occasions.

Reduce Sodium and Saturated Fat

Diets for kidney cancer encourage patients to reduce the amount of sodium and saturated fat from their diets. Moffit Cancer Center says that kidney cancer diets are designed to provide enough calories and protein without excess sodium, potassium and phosphorous. These diets are especially helpful for people whose kidneys can't filter waste. To get enough protein, many people adopt a vegetarian diet. Whey, soy, flaxseed and beans provide vegetarian protein. But people don't have to adopt a vegetarian diet. They can eat lean protein like fish and chicken instead of red meat and eat vegetarian meals a few times a week.