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5 Best Foods for Cancer Survivors

August 09, 2025

After cancer, you’re ready to heal. And one powerful way to support your recover is by putting the right food on your plate.

For help, we turned to Jennifer Meleshenko, RD, CDN, a registered dietitian in oncology with the Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute at The Hospital of Central Connecticut. She shares five foods that can help nourish your body and support you in recovery.

Why does food matter?

After cancer treatment, your body rebuilds, rebalances and regains strength.

“Nutrition is a powerful tool to fuel your recovery,” says Meleshenko. “Certain foods can help you feel stronger and support your immune system as you focus on your long-term health.”

Here are five healing foods to add to your plate:

1. Leafy greens.

Vibrant greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with nutrients your body needs to heal.

“Leafy greens are rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients that support the immune system and help reduce inflammation,” says Meleshenko.

Add them to smoothies, soups, salads, stir-fries or pastas for an easy nutrition boost.

> Related: 3 Reasons Why Watercress Is the Healthiest Vegetable

2. Berries.

Whether you love blueberries, strawberries or raspberries, these small fruits have a big impact.

“Berries help protect your cells from damage and give your body an antioxidant lift,” explains Meleshenko.

Enjoy them fresh, blended into a smoothie, stirred into oatmeal or folded into your favorite pancake batter.

3. Whole grains.

Recovery takes a lot out of you, and you need a steady energy source.

“Whole grains like quinoa, oats and brown rice provide fiber and long-lasting fuel,” says Meleshenko. “They also support digestive health, which treatment can throw off.”

To make things easy, try prepping a batch of whole grains at the beginning of the week and adding them to meals as needed.

> Related: Nutrition Smack Down: Whole Grains

4. Lean proteins.

Protein is key for rebuilding strength and healing tissue.

“Lean proteins like chicken, fish and legumes help the body repair and support immune health,” says Meleshenko.

Try to incorporate a lean protein into each meal to help you hit your protein goals.

> Related: Nutrition Smack Down: Which Protein Is the Healthiest?

5. Nuts and seeds.

If you’re looking for the perfect snack, this might be it.

“Nuts and seeds offer healthy fats, protein and fiber – all important for reducing inflammation and supporting heart health,” says Meleshenko.

Enjoy a handful of almonds, or try adding flaxseeds or sunflower butter to your meals for a boost.

> Related: 7 Healthy Seeds to Add to Your Diet

Need help with your plate? Just ask.

Finishing cancer treatment doesn’t mean going it alone – your care team is still here for you.

“Whether you need help building a healthy food plan, improving sleep or supporting your mental health during recovery, reach out,” says Meleshenko. “Together, we’ll create a plan that fits your life – and helps you keep moving forward confidently.”