How is Cancer Linked to Obesity? A Nutrition Expert Weighs In

Erin Maxon is a nutrition coordinator in the Cancer Center at Trinity Health Ann Arbor. She is a registered dietitian certified in Oncology. As a member of the care team, Erin works with cancer patients throughout their journey. Erin participated in this Q&A to help us understand the importance of diet as it relates to cancer.

Q: What is it that links obesity to cancer?

Erin: Obesity is linked to 13 different cancers, and it could increase the risk of additional cancers. An excess in body fat can increase hormones, which activates cells to divide — creating cancers that are hormone positive, such as some types of breast cancer. Obesity is also linked with inflammation, a factor in many types of cancer.

Q: How do you work with cancer patients?

Erin: Registered dietitians certified in oncology work with cancer patients on treatment to help manage some of the treatment-related side effects of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. We also help patients achieve their nutrition goals after treatment by offering nutrition counseling and specific meal plans tailored to each patient’s unique condition.

Q: How can nutrition help people with cancer?

Erin: If you make healthy food choices, you can reduce the inflammation in your body — making it a less desirable environment for cancer. Your diet can also help improve your hydration status, blood counts and blood sugar control — all things you need to maintain good health.

Q: How can nutrition help people through radiation, chemotherapy and surgery?

Erin: Nutrition can help patients improve their overall health outcomes. It can also help reduce the time between cancer treatments by decreasing treatment side effects. A nutrient-dense diet can help to regenerate blood counts which are needed to receive treatment.

Q: Are there foods that help the body repair and get stronger?

Erin: Yes. Foods that can increase strength include high protein foods such as lean meats, eggs, beans and legumes. Avoid processed meats, such as bacon or sausage. They do not contain high-quality protein.

Q: How can food help fight cancer?

Erin: A plant-based diet, rich in phytonutrients (antioxidants) and fiber, can help reduce the risk of cancer. The American Institute for Cancer Research recommends whole foods versus manufactured artificial meat alternatives.

Q: Can food help cancer survivors and people in remission?

Erin: Yes. Maintaining a healthy weight and an active lifestyle of at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.

Q: What are some healthy foods to include in a diet and unhealthy foods to avoid?

Erin: Some really healthy foods to enjoy are whole foods rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Stay away from all processed meats, such as bacon and sausage. When shopping, avoid the center isles of grocery stores — those are packaged foods, which are high in fat and sodium.

Q: How can people learn more about nutrition and cancer?

Erin: Please visit Trinity Health Michigan’s Supportive Care and Services to learn more. Our supportive cancer care includes all aspects of care — some of the help you’ll find is related to nutrition, financial navigators, pain management, social workers and more.