Can cancer patients eat sea cucumbers?
Generally, cancer patients can consume sea cucumbers, but excessive intake is not recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Sea cucumbers contain abundant high-quality protein and are low in fat, helping cancer patients replenish protein lost during treatment, supporting bodily functions, promoting recovery, and reducing muscle loss. They also contain beneficial components such as sea cucumber saponins and polysaccharides, which can help enhance immune resistance and provide some support for cancer patients facing physical challenges during treatment. Consuming sea cucumbers in moderation can be part of a nutritional supplementation plan for cancer patients.
When consuming sea cucumbers, it is important to choose products from reliable sources with guaranteed quality, ensuring they are clean and thoroughly cooked to avoid bacterial infection. The amount consumed each time should not be excessive—2–3 times per week with small portions each time is sufficient, to prevent increasing digestive burden. Cancer patients who are allergic to seafood, experiencing acute flare-ups, or suffering from severely impaired digestion should avoid consumption. It is advisable to consult a doctor or nutritionist before eating sea cucumbers, adjusting the method and quantity of consumption according to individual medical condition and physical status.