Meeting the nutritional needs of a mesothelioma patient can be a challenge. So you’d think that juicing- which is kind of a foodie fad right now –would be perfect for just about any mesothelioma patient.
Juicing involves extracting the juice from fresh raw fruits and vegetables or pulverizing the produce into a liquid with pulp. Juices like freshly squeezed orange juice can be a refreshing snack or addition to a meal for a mesothelioma patient, especially on a warm summer day. But the American Cancer Society states that “There is no convincing scientific evidence that extracted juices are healthier than whole foods.”
Dr. Ed Blonz, whose popular nutrition column runs in many local newspapers recently highlighted the benefits of eating whole fruits and vegetables instead of juicing them:
- You get individual tastes, textures and an appreciation of how flavors differ with whole fresh fruits and vegetables.
- It takes more time to eat produce than to drink its juice. Although a mesothelioma patient needs calories, too much from raw fruit and vegetable sources could cause diarrhea. The slower enjoyment of a fresh fruit or vegetable keeps control in the loop.
- Juicing, particularly if fibers are not present, can provide a hefty load of sugar in easy-to-consume form. Fruits contain lots of sugars. The natural fibers present in whole fruits act as natural brakes to slow the absorption of sugars into the bloodstream.
The advantage of juicing is that it can provide a convenient and tasty way to add fresh fruits and vegetables to the diet of a mesothelioma patient.
Price varies greatly among juice extractors, with the differing price tags — from about $45 to well over $300 — often reflecting the power and noise buffering of the motor, the pulp capacity and the ease of cleaning.
There is really no best method; it’s all a matter of taste and affordability. Be sure to sample some juice from the machine you are considering buying. Ask for a demonstration at the store where you are planning to make your purchase. Also ask about how a prospective model needs to be cleaned. If cleaning is too much work, the machine may sit unused.
- Fresh juice should be fresh. Only make enough for immediate consumption. If there are leftovers, store them in a covered container and refrigerate, or even freeze.
- To avoid any possible digestive problems, such as an upset stomach, don’t overdo juicing.
- Check with your doctor first.