Multiple myeloma is a form of blood cancer that originates in the bone marrow. It is the result of a type of white blood cell called the plasma cell becoming cancerous and forming a tumor, most likely within the bone. The cancer prevents the healthy plasma cells from fighting infections and the myeloma cells also break down the bone and prevent new bone from forming. This means that fractures are quite common in patients.

Several traditional treatments for the disease include chemotherapy, radiation, and stem cell transplants. Complementary treatments that may be used for people include special diets, acupuncture, and herbs or massages. In addition to medication and therapy, there are several natural treatments one can opt for when suffering from multiple myeloma. These include lifestyle changes as well as food habits. Given below are some of the dietary tips and restrictions that can help one manage multiple myeloma and conditions associated with it.

1. Foods that help manage cancer

Several studies from reputed institutes show that certain vegetables and fruits are beneficial for preventing multiple myeloma and other types of cancer and are also great for complementary natural treatment. These include apples, cranberries, basil, and rosemary. Ursolic acid, which is present in many plants, is cytotoxic and stops the growth of cancer cells. Cauliflower, brussels sprouts, and other cruciferous vegetables like broccoli contain isothiocyanates that have anti-myeloma properties. Fruits like blueberries contain pterostilbene that show anti-tumor activity. Curcumin or turmeric is also known to have properties that are anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory.

2. Diet tips for multiple myeloma
While there is no conclusive evidence on foods that specifically tackle multiple myeloma, there are several foods that can be incorporated into the diet to treat common symptoms of the disease including kidney damage, anemia and to prevent the recurrence of cancer. Proper nutrition can definitely expedite the treatment process and studies indicate a significant improvement in energy levels, health, well-being and strength of people who follow a proper diet during the treatment.

3. Foods to help deal with anemia

Multiple myeloma can result in a condition wherein the number of red blood cells in the body is drastically decreased. This is called anemia. The condition tends to make one feel constant fatigue and weakness. It may also be caused by iron, folate, and deficiencies in vitamin B12 levels. There are two types of iron and these are heme and non-heme. The heme sources are easily absorbed and these include animal-based sources. The non-heme sources are plant based and take a little longer to get absorbed. The plant-based sources include lentils, chickpeas, beans, nuts, spinach, and other leafy vegetables. Vegetables and other sources with vitamin C can also improve absorption. These include lemon juice, oranges, bell peppers, and berries. Folate helps in the formation of red and white blood cells in the bone marrow. There are several foods like lentils, black-eyed peas, broccoli, spinach, and asparagus that are a rich source of folate.

Overall it is important to understand that a diet rich in vegetables and fruits and low in sugar is an ideal natural treatment for managing conditions like multiple myeloma. Foods that should be avoided during chemotherapy or after suffering kidney damage include foods like bananas and avocados which are rich in potassium and phosphorous.