Very rarely have I turned over this space to another writer, and this is the first time I've done it for someone I don't know. The following came to essentially via a "cold call," and I'm still not sure if publishing is the right choice — the circumstances raise my radar about potential misuse of this space by means of some scam I haven't caught onto yet. But, I haven't caught onto anything, and though I don't feel passionately about the content, it does belong at least in the neighborhood and doesn't flout the blog's principles, as far as I can tell. So, tie goes to the writer, Jillian McKee.

Many people choose to follow a vegetarian diet to take better care of their bodies and become healthier. For others, it may have a deeper meaning, especially those who have cancer. A growing number of studies and findings indicate adopting a vegetarian diet can help in the fight against many forms of cancer.


Vegetarianism has often been associated with some of the stranger subcultures in our society, but over the years many people who suffer from diabetes and heart problems have found this regimen of thinking and eating to be the answer to their prayers. As our knowledge base has grown through the years, it is easier to find foods within vegetarian guidelines that provide the necessary nutrients that once could only be found in animal products.


Those with cancer often have many challenges regarding the foods they eat. With treatments such as chemotherapy, it can be difficult to keep food down. It is also important to find the right balance within the foods we eat so that our bodies can fight without the cancer becoming strong as well. Breast cancer or mesothelioma cancer can take such huge tolls on our bodies that those afflicted can benefit from the comfort, soothing and healing effects of many foods found in a vegetarian diet. Studies have found that the antioxidant properties and abundance of nutrients found in many fruits, vegetables and grains are key factors in fighting cancer.


William Harris, M.D. states that our DNA is what decides which cancers might develop in our bodies. While DNA does have reparative properties, damage can still persist and cancers can then form. In his estimation, a vegetarian diet is necessary in fighting various types of cancer.


The USDA is active in helping vegetarians and those wanting to learn more about this lifestyle. It provides resources for protein and calcium needs as well as support groups and forums advocating vegetarianism in the fight against cancer. One forum states that a vegetarian diet has been associated with healthier lifestyles because those participating also exercise and pay closer attention to their health.


A vegetarian diet has so many positive effects on the human body. It provides healthy fats instead of the highly saturated fats associated with animal products. With the wide variety of plant foods available, it can enable those with cancer to fight harder against their illness. Plus it helps fight against obesity as well as cardiovascular problems, enabling the cancer patient to focus on beating cancer.


When deciding to switch to a vegetarian diet, it is important to make sure you get enough protein. Alternatives to grains and gluten are available. Foods like flax meal and quinoa can ensure you get enough fiber and complete protein in your diet if you are or are not a cancer patient. Gone are the days of food combinations and worries of poor nutrition. Today's vegetarian diets are powerful allies in the fight against cancer.