When I heard that my sister-in-law Diane had colon cancer, my first thought was no, not her too! I have lost too many family members to cancer! Even my mother has had cancer twice, but miraculously survived. I cannot lose my older sister. And yes, I said sister. Diane and I have had several conversations about our beloved husbands and how much these step-brothers are alike! We understand what the other is going though. We have had many heart to heart talks.

I was inspired by the Holy Spirit to research about colon cancer. Exactly what is it and the treatments for it. Diane and her husband have determined, and rightly so, to fight this cancer spiritually, mentally, and physically.

Spiritually, they are quoting scripture, praying to God for Diane’s healing and the solutions to any problems, as well praising Him for His provision and care during this time.

Mentally, Diane is keeping God’s Word before her. She is journaling in a blank book and on her blog. Be sure to visit and read her story from her point of view.

Physically, she is doing some walking, some light daily housework, and watching what she eats. This is where I come in. Since I am a chef, my first thought is to fight nutritionally. But I didn’t know much what how to go about that. Therefore I did some research, I have provided her with some information in order for her to eat nutritionally.

In doing my research, I found that there have been some studies suggesting that eating a Mediterranean diet lowers the risk of cancer, no matter what kind it is.  This type of diet can also prevent or improve other diseases as well, such as diabetes and heart disease.

According to several sources, this diet focuses on fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, fish, poultry, low-fat dairy, and whole grains. This diet enjoys herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of the meal. It utilizes olive oil as the principal fat. Most famously, this diet is known for the utilization of red wine. This to be used in moderation; only 1-2 glasses per day for men and 1 glass per day for women. But it should be avoided when with the drinking  of the wine would put the individual at risk, such as during cancer chemotherapy.

Over the next few weeks I will post specific information about Mediterranean diet and recipes I have found utilizing this food pyramid. In the meantime, I have listed some of the sources I have regarding this diet. This is by no means all of the information from reputable resources that I have found, but this is just a start.

The Oldways website is located at http://www.Olwayspt.org Their mission is “to help everyone, everywhere, live longer and healthier lives.” They do this by providing information about healthy eating and healthy foods. They have collaborated with international experts that include scientists, health care professionals, chefs, etc. They discuss the Latin American pyramid, Asian pyramid, and the Mediterranean pyramid.

The University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center conducted a study on how food choices affect an individual’s cancer risk. They compared the Mediterranean diet with a standard healthy diet. This study was done in 2010. Go to http://www.cancer.med.umich.edu/support/mediterranean-bounty.html for any information.

Colon Cancer Coalition is a coalition of family members and friends of those affected by colon cancer. Some are survivors as well. Their mission is to “empower local communities to promote prevention and early detection of colon cancer and to provide support to those affected.”  In their blog, they talk about the benefits of the Mediterranean diet. This page can be found at http://www.getyourrearingearblog.com/featured-articles/what-is-the-mediterranean-diet/

The Mayo Clinic is comprehensive website discussing various health issues. One of these issues is the discussion of cancer and nutrition. The discussion of  the Mediterranean diet is at http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mediterranean-diet/CL00011

Colorectal Cancer Information provided by the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center is located at http://www.cancer.med.umich.edu/cancertreat/gastro/colon_info.shtml

Until next time,

Chef Texas Rose

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