The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be nearly 61,000 new cases of leukemia and almost 24,000 deaths from the condition in 2022. Leukemia is another name for blood cancer. It results from various factors, including cancerous cell growth in the bone marrow and the lymphatic system. The disorder can be classified into different types based on how quickly it spreads and whether it originates from the myeloid or lymphoid cells.

Foods to eat for managing leukemia

Wholesome carbohydrates
In blood cancer, it is important to ensure the body is able to absorb energy efficiently from daily foods. Oatmeal, wholegrain bread, wholewheat pasta, and potatoes with the skin on are digested slowly, making these foods the ideal source of carbohydrates.

Colorful fruits and vegetables
Most colorful fruits and vegetables like spinach, carrots, mangoes, and bell peppers are the richest source of antioxidants. These antioxidants help fight the cancer-causing free radicals and prevent the disease from spreading too aggressively.

Lean proteins
Chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, and low-fat milk are all excellent sources of proteins necessary for tissue repair and muscle growth.

Iron-rich foods
Iron is one of the most essential minerals that helps the body produce new red blood cells and boost hemoglobin count. Dark green and leafy vegetables like spinach, broccoli, collard greens, dandelion greens, beans, nuts, dried fruits, and whole grains are great sources of iron.

Healthy fats
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids help in leukemia treatment. Avocados, assorted nuts and seeds, and olive oil for cooking are some of the best options to choose for daily nutrition.

Leukemia treatments for better management
Doctors may recommend one or a combination of treatments depending on the leukemia symptoms, types, and other factors:

Jakafi
This treatment contains ruxolitinib and is mainly used to treat polycythemia vera and myelofibrosis. It aims to block the signals that cause cancerous cells to multiply.

INREBIC
It is a once-daily oral treatment for adults with specific types of myelofibrosis that can be used with or without food.

VONJO
This is a twice-daily oral treatment for specific forms of myelofibrosis. It can be used alone or in combination with other solutions, as the doctor suggests.

BESREMi
It is administered under the skin to treat the symptoms of polycythemia vera in adults. It targets the disease’s source and may help manage blood cell counts.