The Importance of Protein for Cancer Survivors

Why Is Protein Your New Best Friend?

Protein is crucial for almost every function in your body. While many people associate protein with muscle building, its role extends far beyond that. Protein is necessary for proper metabolism, and it plays a key role in the structure, metabolism, and regulation of tissues and organs, including muscles. It's also essential for producing neurotransmitters, which regulate mood and sleep, helping you feel balanced and rested. Your bones, ligaments, tendons, liver, brain, skin, and even your fingernails are all made from protein. It’s truly a multitasker!

Proteins are made up of amino acids, the building blocks of your diet. By ensuring you're getting enough protein, you’ll also be meeting your body’s amino acid needs. There are 20 different amino acids, and each protein source offers a different balance of them. Some sources provide a better mix of amino acids than others, so it's important to consider this when planning your diet.

Why do cancer patients and survivors need more protein?

During cancer treatment and recovery, your body’s need for protein may increase. This is due to several key factors:

Muscle Preservation: Cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, can lead to muscle wasting, making protein essential for maintaining muscle mass. Adequate protein intake helps prevent muscle loss, which can occur during periods of calorie deficit.
Tissue Repair: Protein plays a crucial role in the repair of tissues. After cancer treatments, the body is often in a catabolic state, breaking down muscle tissue faster than it can rebuild it. Protein is vital for repairing and regenerating tissue, promoting faster recovery.
Immune Function: Protein supports immune health by contributing to the production of antibodies, cytokines, and the maintenance of immune organs such as the spleen and lymph nodes. This helps enhance the body’s ability to fight infections and recover from treatment.
Energy Supply: Fatigue is a common symptom of cancer treatment. Protein contributes to overall energy levels, helping survivors manage daily tasks with more energy.

How Much Protein Do You Really Need Each Day?

Experts suggest boosting daily protein intake from 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight for healthy individuals to 1.2–1.5 g/kg/day for cancer patients.

To calculate your personalized protein requirement, first convert your weight from pounds to kilograms by dividing your weight in pounds by 2.2. Then, multiply the result by 1.2 or 1.5, depending on your specific needs.

For example, if someone weighs 130 pounds, the calculation would be as follows:

130 lbs ÷ 2.2 = 59 kg
59 kg × 1.2 = 70 grams of protein
59 kg × 1.5 = 88 grams of protein

So this person’s recommended daily protein intake would range between 70 and 88 grams.

Let’s dig in on where to find the best protein picks for your plate!

The Best Protein Sources for Your Health

The best sources of protein can come from both animals and plants, and each has its own unique benefits.

Animal-Based Proteins

Eggs

Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. They are versatile and easily incorporated into various meals, making them a convenient option for protein intake. Scrambled, boiled, poached, or fried, you can enjoy them however you like while boosting your health!

Whey Protein

Whey protein is rapidly absorbed by the body, making it ideal for post-workout recovery. It is rich in leucine, an amino acid that’s key to kicking off muscle repair and growth. It can be found in countless protein powders, bars, and snacks!

Beef, Poultry, and Fish

These meats are excellent sources of protein, as they contain the full spectrum of amino acids—basically the same ones found in your muscles. Plus, they’re "complete" proteins, meaning they have all nine essential amino acids that your body can’t make on its own. Whether you're grilling, roasting, or frying, these meats are a great way to support your body and health!

Organ Meats (e.g., Heart)

If you’re up for it, organ meats like liver and heart are nutrient powerhouses and offer a great source of protein. They are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including the antioxidant CoQ10. This powerhouse nutrient plays a critical role in energy production by helping produce ATP, the energy currency of your cells. Beyond that, organ meats are rich in iron, vitamin A, B vitamins, and folate—nutrients that help support blood cell formation, liver detoxification, and overall body health. So, adding these nutrient-dense meats to your diet can support your body’s healing process and help you regain strength and energy.

Plant-Based Proteins

Soy Protein

Soy protein is a top choice for plant-based eaters. It’s one of the few plant proteins that contains all nine essential amino acids. It’s easy to digest and won’t interfere with hormone levels (like testosterone or estrogen), making it a safe and healthy option.

Rice and Pea Protein Blends

For those with soy sensitivities or seeking another plant-based protein option, a rice and pea protein blend is an excellent choice. While rice and pea protein on their own don't provide a complete amino acid profile, together they form a well-rounded protein source that covers all the essential amino acids your body needs.

Potato Protein Isolate

Ever heard of potato protein isolate? It’s a hidden gem in the plant-based protein world. With an amino acid profile that's surprisingly similar to whey, it is another great option for vegans looking for a rich, essential amino-acid-packed protein. Bonus: it’s super gentle on the stomach, so if other proteins tend to upset your belly, potato protein might just be your new best friend.

Is there such a thing as too much protein during treatment and for cancer survivors?

The short answer is: Yes.

Experts agree that increasing protein intake is beneficial as proteins that activate mTORC1 (a protein complex that regulates healthy cell growth) can help boost muscle growth and repair, which is crucial during treatment. A high-protein diet may also strengthen the immune system, aiding the body in fighting tumor cells. However, there's a catch: higher protein intake could potentially stimulate tumor growth by encouraging the tumor to use the same mTOR pathway for protein synthesis. On the flip side, a low-protein diet might limit tumor growth by improving immune surveillance, but this could also lead to malnutrition and muscle wasting, which can be very harmful to those recovering from treatment. For this reason, it is important to take the daily recommended daily protein intake.

Choosing the right protein powder. The do’s and don’ts!

When shopping for your perfect protein powder one of the most important things to consider is individual dietary restrictions or nutritional needs. Here are some things to consider when entering your favorite drugstore.

The protein source: Think about the type of protein in your powder—whether it’s whey, plant-based, or collagen—and choose the one that fits your needs.
Quality: Go for protein powders that are top-notch, and free from any artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners. Clean and pure is the way to go!
Added Ingredients: Keep an eye out for any sneaky ingredients like sugar or caffeine, which could have unwanted effects on your health.
Taste and Texture: If you have taste aversions or trouble swallowing, it’s key to pick a protein powder that’s tasty and easy to drink—something that feels more like a treat than a chore!

What about collagen?

Collagen is a type of protein found in connective tissues like skin, bones, and cartilage. During cancer treatment, collagen can play a key role in helping repair damaged tissues and supporting overall skin health—something that’s especially important for patients going through radiation therapy.

Collagen is often seen as a beauty ingredient, but it’s also a vital support system for cancer patients and survivors. Here’s how it works its magic:

Helping tissues heal and regenerate – Collagen accelerates tissue repair, helping you recover faster.
Improving skin health and elasticity – It contributes to smoother, more resilient skin, even during treatment.
Supporting joints and mobility – Collagen helps keep your joints flexible and active, supporting movement and comfort.
Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress – Collagen helps manage inflammation and fight oxidative stress, contributing to a balanced recovery.

Conclusion

To sum it up, protein is a powerhouse nutrient that plays a pivotal role in cancer recovery. It’s not just about rebuilding muscles—it’s about supporting every part of your body from your skin to your joints, and even your immune system. Whether you’re incorporating eggs, whey, soy, or even collagen into your diet, each protein source offers its unique benefits, helping you heal, regain strength, and stay balanced during treatment and recovery. But remember, while protein is essential, moderation is key. Too much of it can potentially have unintended effects, so it’s crucial to find the right balance for your body’s needs. Ultimately, protein is your ally in recovery, providing the foundation for a stronger, healthier you.