According to the World Cancer Report 2024 from the World Health Organisation (WHO), around a third of cancer deaths are attributable to five preventable risk factors: tobacco, certain infections, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity and poor diet. Tobacco is the main risk factor, accounting for over 90% of cases of lung cancer and contributing significantly to…
Dysphagia, a swallowing disorder, brings with it a number of challenges ranging from discomfort when swallowing to an inability to swallow. Not only can this condition be painful, but it can also signal underlying medical problems that require immediate attention. Understanding its symptoms, causes and diagnostic methods is crucial to properly addressing this condition. What…
The meeting point between nutrition and the immune system has been the epicentre of an emerging and promising discipline: Immunonutrition. This field delves into the fundamental connections between nutrition, immunity, infection, inflammation and tissue damage, exploring how nutrients can be harnessed to modulate the immune system and improve the response to various clinical situations. The…
Bariatric surgery is a significant step on the road to weight loss and a healthier life for many people. There are several types of bariatric surgery: Gastric bypass: In this procedure, a small pouch is created at the top of the stomach and connected directly to the small intestine. This limits the amount of food…
Disease-associated malnutrition ranges from sarcopenic obesity to tumour cachexia, and is a complex phenomenon that impacts the health and quality of life of patients. Related to chronic or acute diseases, as well as to the presence of tumours, it represents a relevant clinical challenge due to its influence on the course of diseases and response…
14 November marks World Diabetes Day, established by the United Nations. Between 1980 and 2017, the estimated number of people worldwide affected by the disease has almost quadrupled to 425 million adults. Diabetes is diagnosed using several criteria: Plasma glucose levels ≥ 200 mg/dL at any time of the day, regardless of food intake. Basal…
The struggle with infertility can be an emotional rollercoaster, and for many couples, understanding the underlying causes is the first step towards treatment and successful conception. The most common causes of infertility: Female Infertility – Ovulation Problems: Irregularities in the menstrual cycle or the absence of ovulation are common causes of female infertility. Polycystic ovary…
Anti-nutrients are substances that are part of the defence mechanism of plants against possible external attacks. These natural compounds can block the absorption or activity of vitamins and minerals. The most important ones are: 1. LECTINS Lectins are glycoproteins found in the seed, legume and grain families, such as rice, wheat, barley and maize, as…
Adapting the diet of oncology patients according to the stage of their illness and treatment ensures a good nutritional state. If the patient is well nourished, there will be less risk of malnutrition, their immune system will be stronger and treatments will be more effective. The most important aspects to take into account in order…
While healthcare is becoming more patient-centred, evidence-based nutrition interventions are still not accessible to all patients with cancer. As nutrition interventions directly improve clinical and socioeconomic outcomes, patient-centred care is not complete without nutrition care. While awareness of the negative impact of malnutrition on clinical outcomes, quality of life, and functional and emotional wellbeing in…
