5 Healthy Sources Of Protein For Cancer Patients

Blog Post By: Jillian McKee Bringing a wealth of personal and professional experience to the organization, Jillian McKee has worked as the Complementary Medicine Advocate at the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance since June of 2009. Jillian spends most her time on outreach efforts and spreading information about the integration of complementary and alternative medicine when used in conjunction with traditional cancer treatment.Protein is a necessary building block of life, but there is significant research that shows a high-protein diet can actually increase the occurrence of cancer. If you are going through a cancer diagnosis and treatment, then you may want to opt for healthier sources of plant protein that will fuel your body and help you stay energized. Nutrition is extremely important when fighting an illness like cancer, and these five foods will help you along.ChickpeasThese beans are an excellent source of fiber, protein and they are low in fat. Chickpeas can be used in salads, sandwiches and even cooked bean patties. They are famously used in hummus and falafel. They contain calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc. Chickpeas are a great anti-cancer food since they contain so many valuable nutrients.QuinoaThis pseudo-grain is a high-quality source of plant protein that contains a full amino-acid profile. Quinoa is related to spinach, but it looks and tastes very different. It is packed with antioxidants. Quinoa provides ample protection against free radicals, and may even help fight breast cancer. This high-fiber food should be a staple in your diet. It is also relatively cheap and easy to cook. Including healthy foods like quinoa in the diet can increase the survival rates of mesothelioma and other forms of cancer.Pea Protein PowderSometimes it is easier to simply make a shake and go about your day. Pea-protein powder is gaining recognition as a powerful source of protein for people. Pea protein is easily absorbed and contains numerous vitamins and minerals. You can blend it with berries for a super-powered cancer-fighting smoothie.BroccoliThis green vegetable is packed with Vitamin C and Vitamin K. It also contains folate and iron. It is also 5.1 percent protein. Broccoli is best when steamed. It retains a majority of its nutrients through this method. Broccoli has been studied extensively in cancer research, and it has been shown that it can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. These two factors are important to consider for cancer patients. These are just a few of the health benefits of broccoli.Hemp Seeds  These little seeds are gaining rapid media and health-food attention around the world. Hemp seeds contain a full amino-acid profile. This makes them an excellent source of complete protein. They contain a substantial amount of omega-3 fatty acids, and they are also high in fiber.The above foods are healthy and natural sources of vitamins, minerals and protein. Consuming them not only gives you a dose of protein, but numerous other important nutrients at the same time. They will energize you while fighting cancer, and give you the nutrition you need to go through treatment successfully.Read more from Jillian: http://www.mesothelioma.com/blog/authors/jillian/bio.htm#ixzz1xVV1dc2Q