Cancer/Oncology Nutritionists and Dietitians in Sherman Oaks, CA

Photo of Dustin Paul Mesick, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Dustin Paul Mesick
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Online Only
My journey with a rare cancer sparked my passion for nutrition.
Are you feeling stuck in your relationship with food? Struggling with emotional eating, feeling guilty, or disconnected from your body’s cues? If diets have left you frustrated, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. I offer a non-diet, trauma-informed approach to help you build a balanced, lasting relationship with food. Together, we’ll work to break free from guilt, create confidence in your food choices, and establish sustainable habits that fit your life and goals.
My journey with a rare cancer sparked my passion for nutrition.
Are you feeling stuck in your relationship with food? Struggling with emotional eating, feeling guilty, or disconnected from your body’s cues? If diets have left you frustrated, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. I offer a non-diet, trauma-informed approach to help you build a balanced, lasting relationship with food. Together, we’ll work to break free from guilt, create confidence in your food choices, and establish sustainable habits that fit your life and goals.
(805) 721-3068 View (805) 721-3068

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Alex Gavronsky, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CNSC
Alex Gavronsky
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CNSC
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
His work focuses on patients with both chronic and acute/severe conditions, ranging from rapid weight change to cancer.
He combines deep academic knowledge gained from 8 years in the clinic with a personalized and thoughtful approach to patient care – focusing on you rather than just your health conditions. With Alex, you will receive not only expert advice backed by the latest clinical evidence, but also a partner to help you build a holistic and lifelong approach to eating.
His work focuses on patients with both chronic and acute/severe conditions, ranging from rapid weight change to cancer.
He combines deep academic knowledge gained from 8 years in the clinic with a personalized and thoughtful approach to patient care – focusing on you rather than just your health conditions. With Alex, you will receive not only expert advice backed by the latest clinical evidence, but also a partner to help you build a holistic and lifelong approach to eating.
(716) 576-3638 View (716) 576-3638
Photo of Riley Maloney, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Riley Maloney
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), Binge Eating Disorder, Sports Nutrition, Oncology and Hematology Nutrition, Pediatrics, GI Conditions/Digestive Problems (IBD, IBS), Acid Reflux (GERD), Crohn's,Diabetes, Food Intolerance, Exercise Addiction, Hormonal Imbalance, Thyroid Conditions.
Riley’s approach to care is rooted in developing a strong rapport with the client and making client’s feel safe and heard. Per her nutrition philosophy, Riley believes in nutrition care that is a mutual conversation where a client can have a say in their care, as this will lead to more sustainable, long-term progress; additionally, Riley practices from a non-diet and Health At Every Size (HAES) perspective for all clients, regardless of diagnosis. Riley prioritizes individualized treatment, tailoring interventions to meet clients developmental, financial, physical and emotional needs.
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), Binge Eating Disorder, Sports Nutrition, Oncology and Hematology Nutrition, Pediatrics, GI Conditions/Digestive Problems (IBD, IBS), Acid Reflux (GERD), Crohn's,Diabetes, Food Intolerance, Exercise Addiction, Hormonal Imbalance, Thyroid Conditions.
Riley’s approach to care is rooted in developing a strong rapport with the client and making client’s feel safe and heard. Per her nutrition philosophy, Riley believes in nutrition care that is a mutual conversation where a client can have a say in their care, as this will lead to more sustainable, long-term progress; additionally, Riley practices from a non-diet and Health At Every Size (HAES) perspective for all clients, regardless of diagnosis. Riley prioritizes individualized treatment, tailoring interventions to meet clients developmental, financial, physical and emotional needs.
(210) 791-9924 View (210) 791-9924
Photo of Caitlyn Dmoch, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CNSC
Caitlyn Dmoch
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CNSC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Caitlyn specializes in nutrition therapy for GI conditions, surgery, nutrition support (tube feeding and TPN), food allergies, ALS, weight gain for malnutrition or unintentional weight loss, mindful eating, cancer, diabetes, heart health, bariatric surgery, weight loss, and meal planning for eating on the go.
Caitlyn is a Registered Dietitian who works with clients ready to take charge of their health and make lasting changes. She understands that each person's relationship with food is deeply personal and strives to work alongside you in partnership. Caitlyn strongly believes that education is the key to meaningful behavior change, empowering her clients with the information they need to make informed decisions. She is ready to be your partner on your health journey, making the process achievable, sustainable, and—most importantly—enjoyable!
Caitlyn specializes in nutrition therapy for GI conditions, surgery, nutrition support (tube feeding and TPN), food allergies, ALS, weight gain for malnutrition or unintentional weight loss, mindful eating, cancer, diabetes, heart health, bariatric surgery, weight loss, and meal planning for eating on the go.
Caitlyn is a Registered Dietitian who works with clients ready to take charge of their health and make lasting changes. She understands that each person's relationship with food is deeply personal and strives to work alongside you in partnership. Caitlyn strongly believes that education is the key to meaningful behavior change, empowering her clients with the information they need to make informed decisions. She is ready to be your partner on your health journey, making the process achievable, sustainable, and—most importantly—enjoyable!
(206) 590-4794 View (206) 590-4794
Photo of Nicole Buchanan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Nicole Buchanan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Nicole has significant experience managing Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, enteral and parenteral nutrition, oncology, hyperlipidemia, weight management, mindful eating, intuitive eating, malnutrition, and hyperemesis gravidarum.
Nicole is a registered dietitian who works with clients ready to take charge of their health and make lasting changes. These clients may be managing, or hoping to prevent, chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or obesity. Nicole helps them develop long-term strategies that prioritize prevention, manage existing conditions, and support a healthier, more vibrant life.
Nicole has significant experience managing Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, enteral and parenteral nutrition, oncology, hyperlipidemia, weight management, mindful eating, intuitive eating, malnutrition, and hyperemesis gravidarum.
Nicole is a registered dietitian who works with clients ready to take charge of their health and make lasting changes. These clients may be managing, or hoping to prevent, chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or obesity. Nicole helps them develop long-term strategies that prioritize prevention, manage existing conditions, and support a healthier, more vibrant life.
(659) 247-2042 View (659) 247-2042
Photo of Karen Cohen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CN
Karen Cohen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CN
Los Angeles, CA 90035
Hearing the news you have cancer can be devastating and life changing, but it does not have to destroy your quality of life.
My focus and expertise is to give you control with a lifestyle plan that will help build up your physical and mental stamina to cope with the emotional and physical constraints of treatments. Remember you are Healthy, but have a conditions.
Hearing the news you have cancer can be devastating and life changing, but it does not have to destroy your quality of life.
My focus and expertise is to give you control with a lifestyle plan that will help build up your physical and mental stamina to cope with the emotional and physical constraints of treatments. Remember you are Healthy, but have a conditions.
(310) 890-7084 View (310) 890-7084
Photo of Brayden Goldblatt, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Brayden Goldblatt
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Brayden’s specialties include weight management, weight loss/gain, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, heart-healthy nutrition therapy, oncology, enteral nutrition, as well as intuitive eating, disordered eating, Health at Every Size (HAES), mindful eating, and general wellness.
Brayden is a registered dietitian with a passion for health and wellness. She supports clients through realistic, sustainable lifestyle changes using a compassionate, inclusive, and client-centered approach. Brayden blends evidence-based nutrition with practical habits to help clients feel their best in the long term. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space for exploring goals and challenges, offering personalized counseling and education to build lasting, meaningful change.
Brayden’s specialties include weight management, weight loss/gain, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, heart-healthy nutrition therapy, oncology, enteral nutrition, as well as intuitive eating, disordered eating, Health at Every Size (HAES), mindful eating, and general wellness.
Brayden is a registered dietitian with a passion for health and wellness. She supports clients through realistic, sustainable lifestyle changes using a compassionate, inclusive, and client-centered approach. Brayden blends evidence-based nutrition with practical habits to help clients feel their best in the long term. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space for exploring goals and challenges, offering personalized counseling and education to build lasting, meaningful change.
(971) 365-3205 View (971) 365-3205
Photo of Dr. Leandro Pucci, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, CKNS, LDN
Dr. Leandro Pucci
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, CKNS, LDN
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you want to improve your cardiometabolic health, manage weight, blood sugar, cholesterol, gut health, or inflammation? Struggling with mood issues? Using GLP-1 therapies (Ozempic, Mounjaro)? Are you experiencing hormone imbalances or performance issues? Curious about keto? I specialize in uncovering root causes and creating personalized, evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle plans. My approach uses Medical Nutrition Therapy to address your unique needs, not just symptoms. Let me help you achieve your health goals with a sustainable, personalized plan tailored to your concerns and health goals.
Do you want to improve your cardiometabolic health, manage weight, blood sugar, cholesterol, gut health, or inflammation? Struggling with mood issues? Using GLP-1 therapies (Ozempic, Mounjaro)? Are you experiencing hormone imbalances or performance issues? Curious about keto? I specialize in uncovering root causes and creating personalized, evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle plans. My approach uses Medical Nutrition Therapy to address your unique needs, not just symptoms. Let me help you achieve your health goals with a sustainable, personalized plan tailored to your concerns and health goals.
(323) 616-1605 View (323) 616-1605
Photo of Juli Keene, Nutritionist/Dietitian, BSc, MS, CN
Juli Keene
Nutritionist/Dietitian, BSc, MS, CN
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Are you a high functioning person frustrated with your weight, stuck on the diet roller coaster, or noticing your body isn’t responding the way it used to? Are you in your 30s or beyond and just not feeling your best? Have you been told your lab results are “normal,” yet you still don’t feel right? Whether you’re dealing with brain fog, weight, hormones, fatigue, digestive issues, mood swings, or you need a fast transformation for a role, competition, or project. I’m here to help. I'm the Los Angeles Nutritionist a lab testing expert with 28 years of optimizing VIPs through lab testing and custom nutrition. Be red carpet ready asap
Are you a high functioning person frustrated with your weight, stuck on the diet roller coaster, or noticing your body isn’t responding the way it used to? Are you in your 30s or beyond and just not feeling your best? Have you been told your lab results are “normal,” yet you still don’t feel right? Whether you’re dealing with brain fog, weight, hormones, fatigue, digestive issues, mood swings, or you need a fast transformation for a role, competition, or project. I’m here to help. I'm the Los Angeles Nutritionist a lab testing expert with 28 years of optimizing VIPs through lab testing and custom nutrition. Be red carpet ready asap
(310) 341-7967 View (310) 341-7967
Photo of Julia Gibson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Julia Gibson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Diabetes, Cancer, Women's health, Mindful and Intuitive Eating, General Nutrition
Julia is a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a commitment to helping individuals overcome eating disorders and cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Julia strives to bring a compassionate and non-judgmental demeanor to foster a safe space where individuals feel heard and understood, making her a ready and capable resource in the challenging but transformative process of overcoming nutrition challenges. Julia offers a wealth of knowledge that comes from years of working in the inpatient setting.
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Diabetes, Cancer, Women's health, Mindful and Intuitive Eating, General Nutrition
Julia is a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a commitment to helping individuals overcome eating disorders and cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Julia strives to bring a compassionate and non-judgmental demeanor to foster a safe space where individuals feel heard and understood, making her a ready and capable resource in the challenging but transformative process of overcoming nutrition challenges. Julia offers a wealth of knowledge that comes from years of working in the inpatient setting.
(312) 494-0401 View (312) 494-0401
Photo of Ellen Handlan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Ellen Handlan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a practicing Registered Dietitian and Certified Nutrition Coach, I am focused on helping clients discover joy and inspiration while living a healthy lifestyle. My approach is highly personalized and emphasizes balance and moderation, as opposed to restriction and elimination. Together, we'll explore your lifestyle and habits, building a fully customized plan you feel confident succeeding with. I'll be there for you every step of the way, offering warm and enthusiastic support in a judgment-free and secure space.
As a practicing Registered Dietitian and Certified Nutrition Coach, I am focused on helping clients discover joy and inspiration while living a healthy lifestyle. My approach is highly personalized and emphasizes balance and moderation, as opposed to restriction and elimination. Together, we'll explore your lifestyle and habits, building a fully customized plan you feel confident succeeding with. I'll be there for you every step of the way, offering warm and enthusiastic support in a judgment-free and secure space.
(877) 379-5460 View (877) 379-5460
Photo of Kenna Kita, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
Kenna Kita
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
10 Endorsed
Online Only
When the majority of your thoughts constantly revolve around food, your body, or your weight, it can feel like you’re constantly battling with yourself. It’s exhausting- and it’s not your fault. Diet culture thrives on disconnecting you from your body’s wisdom, leaving you stuck in cycles of shame, confusion, and self-blame. You deserve better. I’m here to help you tune back into yourself: to rebuild trust with your body, make peace with food, and reclaim your energy for things that actually matter in your life.
When the majority of your thoughts constantly revolve around food, your body, or your weight, it can feel like you’re constantly battling with yourself. It’s exhausting- and it’s not your fault. Diet culture thrives on disconnecting you from your body’s wisdom, leaving you stuck in cycles of shame, confusion, and self-blame. You deserve better. I’m here to help you tune back into yourself: to rebuild trust with your body, make peace with food, and reclaim your energy for things that actually matter in your life.
(206) 745-4315 View (206) 745-4315
Photo of Mariah Haroon, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS RDN
Mariah Haroon
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS RDN
Los Angeles, CA 90025
My food philosophy has guided me successfully throughout my career as a Registered Dietitian. I believe healthy eating is attainable for everyone, regardless of their income, routine and dietary preference. Moreover, there is not one particular method to achieve a healthy weight. The key is to understand what works for you. Realize ways to sustain your nutrition status and allow for set backs. I am genuinely happy to see my clients discover their own method to keep themselves healthy.
My food philosophy has guided me successfully throughout my career as a Registered Dietitian. I believe healthy eating is attainable for everyone, regardless of their income, routine and dietary preference. Moreover, there is not one particular method to achieve a healthy weight. The key is to understand what works for you. Realize ways to sustain your nutrition status and allow for set backs. I am genuinely happy to see my clients discover their own method to keep themselves healthy.
(424) 207-1967 View (424) 207-1967
Photo of Madeleine Hutchison, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
Madeleine Hutchison
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
11 Endorsed
Online Only
Taking the first step to heal your relationship with food and body can feel overwhelming! My goal is to ensure that you don’t have to walk that path alone. I am a dietitian with experience working with eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns. I believe the right path forward looks different for each person. Therefore, I take a trauma-informed and patient-centered approach. This is achieved through modeling genuine curiosity and empathy. Together, we will identify strategies that help you reclaim your health while maintaining a healthy relationship with food.
Taking the first step to heal your relationship with food and body can feel overwhelming! My goal is to ensure that you don’t have to walk that path alone. I am a dietitian with experience working with eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns. I believe the right path forward looks different for each person. Therefore, I take a trauma-informed and patient-centered approach. This is achieved through modeling genuine curiosity and empathy. Together, we will identify strategies that help you reclaim your health while maintaining a healthy relationship with food.
(206) 693-4243 View (206) 693-4243
Photo of Vivianne Swart, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CD
Vivianne Swart
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CD
10 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m best suited for people seeking flexible, realistic support for cancer prevention or survivorship, chronic conditions (like CKD, diabetes, GI disorders), eating disorders, or women’s health and hormone transitions—who want sustainable change and a more supportive relationship with food.
I offer integrative, functional nutrition care grounded in Health at Every Size (HAES). Our work will be collaborative, compassionate, and evidence-based, focused on identifying root contributors and creating achievable plans that support health and quality of life across all stages.
I’m best suited for people seeking flexible, realistic support for cancer prevention or survivorship, chronic conditions (like CKD, diabetes, GI disorders), eating disorders, or women’s health and hormone transitions—who want sustainable change and a more supportive relationship with food.
I offer integrative, functional nutrition care grounded in Health at Every Size (HAES). Our work will be collaborative, compassionate, and evidence-based, focused on identifying root contributors and creating achievable plans that support health and quality of life across all stages.
(206) 312-4466 View (206) 312-4466
Photo of Yi Min Teo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CNSC
Yi Min Teo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CNSC
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, scared of eating foods due to your digestive disorder diagnosis (Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis, IBS, gastroparesis, new ileostomy/colostomy, etc)? Has this led to a restrictive diet, fatigue, stress and weight loss? I am here to help clients like you to troubleshoot and navigate your digestive issues, empower you through personalized step-by-step strategies to help reduce fear and anxiety around eating, decrease inflammation, and get your peace, energy and confidence back.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, scared of eating foods due to your digestive disorder diagnosis (Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis, IBS, gastroparesis, new ileostomy/colostomy, etc)? Has this led to a restrictive diet, fatigue, stress and weight loss? I am here to help clients like you to troubleshoot and navigate your digestive issues, empower you through personalized step-by-step strategies to help reduce fear and anxiety around eating, decrease inflammation, and get your peace, energy and confidence back.
(323) 207-0403 View (323) 207-0403
Photo of Sheri Lee Weitz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDCES
Sheri Lee Weitz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDCES
Los Angeles, CA 90045
If you suffer from digestive problems, food allergies, previous or current cancer treatment or other health issues, I am also a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDCES).
Are you confused about what to eat? Are you looking to keep muscle while on a GLP-1? . Are you diabetic or trying to prevent diabetes or other chronic diseases? Do you suffer with food allergies or sensitivities? Do you display disordered eating, or eating disorder behaviors? Let's form a "team" to help improve your labs, lose or gain weight, and make lasting changes without feeling deprived. I currently work in doctors' offices and hospitals, keeping up-to-date on the latest research. I also accept most Insurance, and Medicare. If you need to pay out of pocket, I will work with your budget. It's time to "Move to Wellness!"
If you suffer from digestive problems, food allergies, previous or current cancer treatment or other health issues, I am also a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDCES).
Are you confused about what to eat? Are you looking to keep muscle while on a GLP-1? . Are you diabetic or trying to prevent diabetes or other chronic diseases? Do you suffer with food allergies or sensitivities? Do you display disordered eating, or eating disorder behaviors? Let's form a "team" to help improve your labs, lose or gain weight, and make lasting changes without feeling deprived. I currently work in doctors' offices and hospitals, keeping up-to-date on the latest research. I also accept most Insurance, and Medicare. If you need to pay out of pocket, I will work with your budget. It's time to "Move to Wellness!"
(424) 320-6194 View (424) 320-6194
Photo of Shima Fazelimanesh, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CPT
Shima Fazelimanesh
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CPT
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
I am a Clinical Registered Dietitian and specialize in renal disease, diabetes, GI including enteral (Tube Feedings) & parenteral nutrition. In addition to my private practice, I am currently working as an acute care clinical dietitian at Olive-View UCLA Medical Center, & as an Organ Transplant Dietitian at Keck Medical Center of USC & an outpatient Dialysis Cedars Sinai Medical Center; additionally, have led outpatient diabetes education and weight loss and bariatric education classes at Olive View UCLA Medical Center. My goal is to help & teach my patients how to make nutritionally sound food choices to speed the recovery process.
I am a Clinical Registered Dietitian and specialize in renal disease, diabetes, GI including enteral (Tube Feedings) & parenteral nutrition. In addition to my private practice, I am currently working as an acute care clinical dietitian at Olive-View UCLA Medical Center, & as an Organ Transplant Dietitian at Keck Medical Center of USC & an outpatient Dialysis Cedars Sinai Medical Center; additionally, have led outpatient diabetes education and weight loss and bariatric education classes at Olive View UCLA Medical Center. My goal is to help & teach my patients how to make nutritionally sound food choices to speed the recovery process.
(323) 784-6256 View (323) 784-6256
Photo of Dr. Cynthia Esparza, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MScN
Dr. Cynthia Esparza
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MScN
Online Only
I work with clients who feel overwhelmed by chronic symptoms such as fatigue, pain, digestive concerns, hormone changes, brain fog, or metabolic issues. Many have been told their labs are “normal” but still do not feel well. They are looking for clarity, structure, and a plan that makes sense. Many want to improve their health but feel uncertain where to begin or worry they may not be successful. They are seeking guidance and a thoughtful partnership to help them move forward.
I work with clients who feel overwhelmed by chronic symptoms such as fatigue, pain, digestive concerns, hormone changes, brain fog, or metabolic issues. Many have been told their labs are “normal” but still do not feel well. They are looking for clarity, structure, and a plan that makes sense. Many want to improve their health but feel uncertain where to begin or worry they may not be successful. They are seeking guidance and a thoughtful partnership to help them move forward.
(503) 868-2819 View (503) 868-2819
Photo of Anna Grayce Abel, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Anna Grayce Abel
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Online Only
I have experience working with those undergoing oncology treatment, disordered eating and chronic illnesses.
My ideal client is something who is struggling with their physical health, their relationship with food or has chronic pain, and ultimately wants a better relationship with food and their bodies.
I have experience working with those undergoing oncology treatment, disordered eating and chronic illnesses.
My ideal client is something who is struggling with their physical health, their relationship with food or has chronic pain, and ultimately wants a better relationship with food and their bodies.
(323) 894-7952 View (323) 894-7952
Cancer/Oncology Nutritionists and Dietitians
Why is nutrition important for cancer treatment?
Nutrition can play a key role in cancer treatment. The symptoms of cancer and its treatments—such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite—can lead to malnutrition, resulting in weight loss and potential nutrient deficiencies. This can hinder the patient's ability to combat cancer and respond effectively to treatment. Therefore, ensuring sufficient caloric intake is critical and may require specific dietary strategies to ensure high-enough caloric and protein intake. This might involve the consumption of high-calorie foods and beverages. In some cases, tube feeding may be required to ensure the patient receives sufficient calories during the cancer treatment process.

Can diet help prevent cancer?
Diet is a significant lifestyle factor that research has shown to influence the risk of certain cancers. One of the strongest links is between obesity and cancer, with about 4-8% of cancers being related to obesity. Specifically, breast, colorectal, esophageal, pancreatic, kidney, and liver cancers are most strongly associated with obesity. Thus, maintaining a healthy diet that prevents obesity can be highly effective in reducing the risk of these cancers. Other than obesity, certain foods, such as processed meats, have been linked to colorectal cancer specifically. In general, lifestyle modifications that lower the risk of other chronic diseases, such as consuming a primarily plant-based diet and getting enough exercise, are also highly effective habits in reducing the risk of developing cancer.

Can cancer be cured with proper nutrition?
While there is no evidence to suggest that nutrition alone can cure cancer, a proper diet can be a crucial component of successful treatment for certain types of cancer. For cancers linked to obesity, weight loss through a healthy diet can lead to more positive treatment outcomes. Even for cancers not related to obesity, diet can still play a significant role by influencing the effectiveness of certain cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy. Most experts recommend that cancer patients focus on eating enough to prevent malnutrition, as maintaining sufficient strength is vital for the body to effectively combat cancer and respond to therapies such as chemotherapy. Thus, while nutrition is not a cure, it is an important part of the cancer recovery process.

What role does a dietitian play in a cancer patient's care team?
Because diet plays a significant role in the successful treatment of cancer, either through lifestyle modification or through the prevention of malnutrition, dietitians can be a crucial member of a cancer patient's care team. Dietitians who specialize in working with cancer patients often have a deep understanding of how certain cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, can impact a patient's ability to meet their nutritional needs. They can thus assist patients in developing nutrition strategies that help alleviate common cancer treatment symptoms like nausea and vomiting. For patients with cancers linked to obesity, dietitians can suggest lifestyle modification strategies that aid in both the treatment process and lead to lasting positive changes after treatment.