2 Easy Drinks That May Help During Breast Cancer Treatment

Oncology dietitians Taylor Carlyle and Kanisha Parikh of the John Theurer Cancer Center shared two nutrient-dense drink recipes designed to support patients with breast cancer during treatment and survivorship.

During the presentation, the dietitians emphasized a “food first” approach to nutrition, explaining that high-dose antioxidant supplements, such as vitamin C, vitamin A or turmeric supplements, are not generally recommended during active treatment because they may interfere with therapies like chemotherapy, radiation or immunotherapy.

The first recipe, a berry protein smoothie, combines frozen berries, banana, spinach, chia seeds, nut butter, protein powder and almond milk. The dietitians explained that berries and spinach can help increase antioxidant intake, while chia seeds provide fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and protein. They also noted that smoothies can be especially helpful for patients experiencing nausea, fatigue, dry mouth or poor appetite because they pack calories and protein into a smaller meal.

The presenters also discussed plant-forward eating patterns and clarified that whole soy foods consumed in moderation are safe for patients with breast cancer.

The second recipe, a turmeric latte, includes milk, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, black pepper and honey. According to the presenters, ginger may help with nausea and digestion, while turmeric contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Black pepper was included to help improve absorption of curcumin, turmeric’s active compound.

Berry Protein Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen berries
• 1 frozen banana
• 1/2 cup frozen spinach
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon nut butter
• 1 serving vanilla protein powder
• 1 cup almond milk

Instructions: Add ingredients to a blender in the listed order and blend until smooth.

Turmeric Latte

Ingredients:

• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 inch fresh grated ginger
• Pinch cinnamon
• Pinch black pepper
• 1 teaspoon honey, optional

Instructions: Whisk ingredients in a saucepan, bring to a boil, simmer for 5 minutes and strain into cups.

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