Nutritional Strategies to Support Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Management

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a rare blood cancer originating in the bone marrow, predominantly affecting older adults. It results from spontaneous chromosome mutations. Standard treatments include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, stem cell transplants, and biological treatments. In addition to medical interventions, dietary habits play a crucial role in managing symptoms. Here are key nutritional tips for individuals with CML.

Prioritize vegetable intake
Consuming steamed vegetables helps ensure intake of vital nutrients. Stir-fries with carrots, broccoli, mushrooms, and peppers offer both flavor and essential vitamins and minerals.

Soups made from leafy greens like kale, collard greens, and spinach, along with vegetable juices low in sodium, are also beneficial.

Boost fruit consumption
Patients should aim for 5-10 servings of fresh fruit daily. Fruits are rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and phytochemicals that support immune health. Incorporate them into salads, cereals, yogurt, smoothies, and desserts to meet daily nutritional needs.

Choose gentle foods during treatment
Chemotherapy can cause nausea and digestive discomfort. To soothe the stomach, opt for bland, cooling foods such as crackers, ginger ale, camomile tea, popsicles, and clear broths. Avoid spicy, caffeinated, or greasy foods.

Avoid raw foods
Since treatments may lower white blood cell counts, it is important to limit RAW foods like unwashed vegetables and fruits (except those with thick peels like bananas and oranges). Also, steer clear of raw or undercooked fish, meats, eggs, deli meats, and salad bar items.

Limit soft cheeses
Soft cheeses, especially mold-ripened or blue-veined varieties such as Brie, Camembert, Roquefort, Stilton, and Gorgonzola, can negatively impact neutrophil levels. It’s best to avoid these cheeses during CML treatment.