When you're battling cancer, every bite of food matters. While it's common to hear about anti cancer spices that may help fight disease, there's another side of the coin that often gets ignored—spices that could make things worse during cancer treatment.
We’ve all heard about the benefits of certain spices, especially turmeric for cancer, which is praised for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, not all spices for cancer are helpful, and some can interfere with medications or worsen treatment side effects.
Spices to Avoid in Cancer
Here are some of the spices to avoid in cancer:
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Garlic
Although garlic is great for heart health, it may increase the risk of bleeding, especially when taken with medications like aspirin or warfarin. So if you’re using garlic supplements or eating it in large amounts, it might be worth reevaluating.
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Turmeric (Curcumin)
Turmeric is one of the most widely discussed anti cancer spices, however, it is important to use it with caution. The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, is known for its potential to fight cancer cells. However, high doses may interact with blood-thinning medications or reduce the effectiveness of certain chemotherapy drugs.
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Ginger
Ginger, widely known for its ability to relieve nausea, may not always be safe during cancer treatment. Ginger has the potential to interact with blood thinners, which can increase the risk of bleeding.
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Chili peppers
Chilli peppers, known for their heat, contain a compound called capsaicin. While it might help in small doses, spicy food can cause serious discomfort for cancer patients, particularly those who have mouth sores or digestive issues from treatment.
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Black Pepper
Black pepper can alter how your body absorbs medications by increasing their potency, leading to unexpected side effects. It is wise to use it sparingly if you’re on cancer drugs.
Conclusion
While it’s tempting to experiment with natural remedies, not all spices are your friends during cancer. Do check with your doctor before making any significant dietary changes. Alongside being mindful of what you eat, it's equally important to think about the financial burden that comes with cancer. Medical expenses can pile up quickly, so having a good health insurance policy or even critical illness insurance can make a huge difference.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.