Cancer/Oncology Nutritionists and Dietitians in Palatine, IL

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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 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 Caitlyn Dmoch, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CNSC
Caitlyn Dmoch
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CNSC
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
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 Shilpa K Patel - Energycompass, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, RDH, BEP
Energycompass
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, RDH, BEP
Barrington, IL 60010
As a Clinical Nutritionist, I specialize in educating and empowering clients by addressing the complex interconnections between nutrition, biochemical functions, lifestyle, and environment. My goal is to support whole-body function and long-term wellness by targeting key systems such as sugar metabolism, gastrointestinal health, brain and mental health, hormonal balance, immune function, and more. Using a personalized, functional approach, I incorporate a wide range of tools—including comprehensive lab testing and individualized assessments—to uncover nutritional and lifestyle imbalances that may be contributing to health challenge
As a Clinical Nutritionist, I specialize in educating and empowering clients by addressing the complex interconnections between nutrition, biochemical functions, lifestyle, and environment. My goal is to support whole-body function and long-term wellness by targeting key systems such as sugar metabolism, gastrointestinal health, brain and mental health, hormonal balance, immune function, and more. Using a personalized, functional approach, I incorporate a wide range of tools—including comprehensive lab testing and individualized assessments—to uncover nutritional and lifestyle imbalances that may be contributing to health challenge
(847) 994-4313 View (847) 994-4313
Photo of Julia Gibson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Julia Gibson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
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 Kelly Bay, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CNS, DC
Kelly Bay
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CNS, DC
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals experiencing complex, chronic health concerns such as gut issues, hormone imbalance, autoimmune conditions, thyroid dysfunction, food sensitivities, and low energy or poor sleep. They often feel frustrated by vague symptoms or inconclusive conventional testing and want deeper answers. I use a functional, whole-body approach with in-depth assessment and diagnostic testing to identify root causes. Together, we use personalized nutrition, lifestyle strategies, and education to improve symptoms and restore confidence in their health.
My ideal clients are individuals experiencing complex, chronic health concerns such as gut issues, hormone imbalance, autoimmune conditions, thyroid dysfunction, food sensitivities, and low energy or poor sleep. They often feel frustrated by vague symptoms or inconclusive conventional testing and want deeper answers. I use a functional, whole-body approach with in-depth assessment and diagnostic testing to identify root causes. Together, we use personalized nutrition, lifestyle strategies, and education to improve symptoms and restore confidence in their health.
(708) 938-3273 View (708) 938-3273
Photo of Marcy Kirshenbaum, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CLT
Marcy Kirshenbaum
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CLT
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
As a clinical nutritionist, I offer individual nutritional counseling to help you make practical and sustainable changes specifically addressing your issues through a healthy lifestyle. You'll experience optimal health and wellness when your body functions are in balance. In our fast-paced, convenience focused lives, we are faced with many obstacles that take us off course-our lifestyle and the quality of our foods, for example. I specialize in gastrointestinal wellness and detoxification support. Gastrointestinal health plays a central role in all other body systems, while support of the body's detoxification mechanisms is critical in our world today.
As a clinical nutritionist, I offer individual nutritional counseling to help you make practical and sustainable changes specifically addressing your issues through a healthy lifestyle. You'll experience optimal health and wellness when your body functions are in balance. In our fast-paced, convenience focused lives, we are faced with many obstacles that take us off course-our lifestyle and the quality of our foods, for example. I specialize in gastrointestinal wellness and detoxification support. Gastrointestinal health plays a central role in all other body systems, while support of the body's detoxification mechanisms is critical in our world today.
(224) 231-6943 View (224) 231-6943
Photo of Abbie Widing, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Abbie Widing
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60616
Abbie is passionate about helping others improve their relationship with food, body image, weight, and health. She helps clients achieve positive changes in mental and physical well-being through nutrition counseling and education. Abbie provides personalized care tailored to your nutritional needs using a non-diet approach. She offers counseling in a supportive setting, using methods like motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy, along with tools such as hands-on activities and educational handouts.
Abbie is passionate about helping others improve their relationship with food, body image, weight, and health. She helps clients achieve positive changes in mental and physical well-being through nutrition counseling and education. Abbie provides personalized care tailored to your nutritional needs using a non-diet approach. She offers counseling in a supportive setting, using methods like motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy, along with tools such as hands-on activities and educational handouts.
(659) 216-8557 View (659) 216-8557
Photo of Julie Moreschi, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Julie Moreschi
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Chicago, IL 60632
Julie’s ideal clients are individuals seeking personalized support for weight management, chronic disease prevention, digestive health, and overall wellness. Many come to her wanting practical guidance that fits their lifestyle and health goals. As a client-centered Registered Dietitian, Julie provides evidence-based nutrition care, individualized meal planning, and ongoing support to help clients build healthier habits and achieve lasting results.
Julie’s ideal clients are individuals seeking personalized support for weight management, chronic disease prevention, digestive health, and overall wellness. Many come to her wanting practical guidance that fits their lifestyle and health goals. As a client-centered Registered Dietitian, Julie provides evidence-based nutrition care, individualized meal planning, and ongoing support to help clients build healthier habits and achieve lasting results.
(773) 786-9787 View (773) 786-9787
Photo of Charlotte Hammond - Eating With Ease , Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CDE, RYT
Eating With Ease
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CDE, RYT
Serves Area
From the solace of your home, I will work with you to use food as medicine and put short and long term diet-based solutions into action. As an Integrative and Functional Dietitian and Diabetes Educator, I can use nutrition science with labs, genetics, and your observations to help you not only get well but feel better for life! Common issues I help people with include digestive problems, PCOS, testosterone support, DIABETES, high blood pressure, anxiety/depression, hypothyroidism, sensitivity-related illness, and weight management. However, if you have no named illness and just feel awful, I am here for you.
From the solace of your home, I will work with you to use food as medicine and put short and long term diet-based solutions into action. As an Integrative and Functional Dietitian and Diabetes Educator, I can use nutrition science with labs, genetics, and your observations to help you not only get well but feel better for life! Common issues I help people with include digestive problems, PCOS, testosterone support, DIABETES, high blood pressure, anxiety/depression, hypothyroidism, sensitivity-related illness, and weight management. However, if you have no named illness and just feel awful, I am here for you.
(312) 561-4896 View (312) 561-4896
Photo of Randi Andres, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
Randi Andres
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
Randi Andres is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, PCOS, and Digestive Issues. Her passion is to help clients cultivate a more peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. Through a non-diet, weight inclusive philosophy, Randi enjoys providing the tools and support to clients so that they can learn to nourish their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental, and enjoyable way. She believes that through integrating the principles of intuitive eating and health at every size, everyone can and deserves to achieve food freedom.
Randi Andres is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, PCOS, and Digestive Issues. Her passion is to help clients cultivate a more peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. Through a non-diet, weight inclusive philosophy, Randi enjoys providing the tools and support to clients so that they can learn to nourish their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental, and enjoyable way. She believes that through integrating the principles of intuitive eating and health at every size, everyone can and deserves to achieve food freedom.
(305) 614-9182 View (305) 614-9182
Photo of Stacy Jonio, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Stacy Jonio
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Chicago, IL 60632
My ideal clients are individuals seeking better blood sugar control, sustainable weight loss, and improved overall health. Many come to my practice feeling overwhelmed by nutrition advice or frustrated by approaches that have not worked. As a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, I provide personalized, practical guidance to help clients build realistic habits, feel more confident, and make steady progress toward lasting health goals.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking better blood sugar control, sustainable weight loss, and improved overall health. Many come to my practice feeling overwhelmed by nutrition advice or frustrated by approaches that have not worked. As a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, I provide personalized, practical guidance to help clients build realistic habits, feel more confident, and make steady progress toward lasting health goals.
(773) 823-0848 View (773) 823-0848
Photo of Steve Ziganto, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Steve Ziganto
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Woodridge, IL 60517
At our first session, the average person tells me "I know what I need to do, I just wish I had the willpower to do it." Many rely on sheer willpower to accomplish their goals instead of learning how to make nutrition a simple and enjoyable process. Nutrition is not supposed to be this hard or guilt-inducing. It should primarily mold around your general life and preferences, not the other way around. My main approach to accomplish this is to build a basic understanding on why your old habits do not work, and why these new habits will work.
At our first session, the average person tells me "I know what I need to do, I just wish I had the willpower to do it." Many rely on sheer willpower to accomplish their goals instead of learning how to make nutrition a simple and enjoyable process. Nutrition is not supposed to be this hard or guilt-inducing. It should primarily mold around your general life and preferences, not the other way around. My main approach to accomplish this is to build a basic understanding on why your old habits do not work, and why these new habits will work.
(708) 840-8701 View (708) 840-8701
Photo of Kelly Duncombe, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Kelly Duncombe
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Meet Kelly, a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a passion for the profound connection between food, health, and the human body. Kelly's journey in the realm of nutrition has been fueled by her unwavering commitment to promoting well-being and her insatiable curiosity for learning. With a heart that genuinely loves people, Kelly derives immense satisfaction from coaching and helping individuals on their path to better health. Her fascination with medical conditions drives her to continuously seek innovative ways to make a difference in the lives of those she serves and strives to empower others to make informed, healthier choices
Meet Kelly, a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a passion for the profound connection between food, health, and the human body. Kelly's journey in the realm of nutrition has been fueled by her unwavering commitment to promoting well-being and her insatiable curiosity for learning. With a heart that genuinely loves people, Kelly derives immense satisfaction from coaching and helping individuals on their path to better health. Her fascination with medical conditions drives her to continuously seek innovative ways to make a difference in the lives of those she serves and strives to empower others to make informed, healthier choices
(872) 259-6187 View (872) 259-6187
Photo of Brandi Gail, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPPD, RD
Brandi Gail
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPPD, RD
Online Only
I am a registered dietitian who believes nutrition care should feel supportive, realistic, and even enjoyable. I take a weight-inclusive, nonjudgmental approach and meet clients where they are, focusing on small, attainable weekly goals to support sustainable lifestyle change. I specialize in PCOS, diabetes, prediabetes, gestational diabetes, cholesterol management, weight loss, and overall healthy living. I bring warmth, compassion, and a sense of humor into every session.
I am a registered dietitian who believes nutrition care should feel supportive, realistic, and even enjoyable. I take a weight-inclusive, nonjudgmental approach and meet clients where they are, focusing on small, attainable weekly goals to support sustainable lifestyle change. I specialize in PCOS, diabetes, prediabetes, gestational diabetes, cholesterol management, weight loss, and overall healthy living. I bring warmth, compassion, and a sense of humor into every session.
(224) 243-7047 View (224) 243-7047
Photo of Ashley Fortenberry, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD/RDN, LDN, CDN, CDCES, IFNCP
Ashley Fortenberry
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD/RDN, LDN, CDN, CDCES, IFNCP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ebb & Flow Medical Nutrition Therapy & Consulting: helping people with chronic conditions - such as PCOS, diabetes, hypertension, and disordered eating - find solutions and peace with food through evidence-based, functional nutrition. I use food and nutrients to remit or improve chronic conditions, while teaching you about food/your body along the way. We look forward to meeting and working with you!
Ebb & Flow Medical Nutrition Therapy & Consulting: helping people with chronic conditions - such as PCOS, diabetes, hypertension, and disordered eating - find solutions and peace with food through evidence-based, functional nutrition. I use food and nutrients to remit or improve chronic conditions, while teaching you about food/your body along the way. We look forward to meeting and working with you!
(916) 409-3008 View (916) 409-3008
Photo of Heather Ritter, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Heather Ritter
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60653
Specializes in Disordered Eating, Eating Disorders, General Healthy Eating, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, IBD, Low FODMAP, GI Conditions, Diverticulitis, Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis, High Blood Pressure, Oncology Nutrition, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Malnutrition, Gastroparesis, Underweight Nutrition, Baby Led Weaning, Hyper/Hypothyroidism, and Sports Nutrition.
Heather is passionate about working collaboratively with her clients to help them heal their relationship with their body and food. She works with clients to facilitate changes that will improve overall quality of life. She believes that food and nutrition should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. Her own experiences have fueled her particular interest in intuitive eating, disordered eating and HAES aligned care. She loves working alongside clients to find creative ways to make food both nourishing and enjoyable.
Specializes in Disordered Eating, Eating Disorders, General Healthy Eating, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, IBD, Low FODMAP, GI Conditions, Diverticulitis, Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis, High Blood Pressure, Oncology Nutrition, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Malnutrition, Gastroparesis, Underweight Nutrition, Baby Led Weaning, Hyper/Hypothyroidism, and Sports Nutrition.
Heather is passionate about working collaboratively with her clients to help them heal their relationship with their body and food. She works with clients to facilitate changes that will improve overall quality of life. She believes that food and nutrition should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. Her own experiences have fueled her particular interest in intuitive eating, disordered eating and HAES aligned care. She loves working alongside clients to find creative ways to make food both nourishing and enjoyable.
(346) 248-2577 View (346) 248-2577
Photo of Madeline Kuras, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Madeline Kuras
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Madeline is a registered dietitian who is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their personal goals and feel in control of their own nutrition journey. She has experience in all levels of eating disorder treatment across all age groups. Madeline has a background in athletics and utilizes this to foster resilience and strength in her clients. She approaches each session with curiosity and drive to understand her clients struggles. She provides a safe space for all individuals to create and define their own definition of health and sustainable change.
Madeline is a registered dietitian who is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their personal goals and feel in control of their own nutrition journey. She has experience in all levels of eating disorder treatment across all age groups. Madeline has a background in athletics and utilizes this to foster resilience and strength in her clients. She approaches each session with curiosity and drive to understand her clients struggles. She provides a safe space for all individuals to create and define their own definition of health and sustainable change.
(651) 412-7437 View (651) 412-7437
Photo of Jacs Scheinman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Jacs Scheinman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Online Only
Hi, I’m Jacs Scheinman (he/him)—a registered dietitian and co-founder of Food 4 Thought Nutrition, PLLC. I specialize in compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming support for neurodivergent, queer, and chronically ill individuals—especially those navigating disordered eating, ARFID, or complex medical and digestive conditions. If traditional nutrition advice hasn’t worked for your brain or body, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken.
Hi, I’m Jacs Scheinman (he/him)—a registered dietitian and co-founder of Food 4 Thought Nutrition, PLLC. I specialize in compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming support for neurodivergent, queer, and chronically ill individuals—especially those navigating disordered eating, ARFID, or complex medical and digestive conditions. If traditional nutrition advice hasn’t worked for your brain or body, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken.
(847) 910-3662 View (847) 910-3662
Photo of Madeline Butler-Sanchez, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Madeline Butler-Sanchez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Naperville, IL 60563
Are you looking to make lifestyle changes to improve your health but don’t know how? Are you also tired of trying everything, and your health conditions are the same or even worse? I’m here to tell you that you are not alone. I’m a bilingual Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and plant-based expert, passionate about helping patients change their lifestyle to prevent, treat, and manage chronic diseases. With mindfulness and respect, we can work together to achieve your nutritional goals, offering personalized nutrition recommendations based on your preferences, needs, schedule, and more.
Are you looking to make lifestyle changes to improve your health but don’t know how? Are you also tired of trying everything, and your health conditions are the same or even worse? I’m here to tell you that you are not alone. I’m a bilingual Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and plant-based expert, passionate about helping patients change their lifestyle to prevent, treat, and manage chronic diseases. With mindfulness and respect, we can work together to achieve your nutritional goals, offering personalized nutrition recommendations based on your preferences, needs, schedule, and more.
(331) 321-7017 View (331) 321-7017
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.