Keeping your body strong and healthy as you grow older is important. One of the best ways to achieve this goal is by eating a healthy diet that includes lots of plant foods.
Filling your plate with foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and beans can protect your body from serious health problems. Childhood cancer survivors have a higher chance of developing issues like heart disease and diabetes earlier than people who did not have childhood cancer.
However, eating a diet rich in plant foods can help lower this risk. These foods have vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that keep your heart strong, boost your immune system, and support your overall health.
This issue of LIFELINE focuses on healthy eating. We are excited to share an interview with Dr. Yikyung Park of Washington University School of Medicine about a St. Jude LIFE study that highlights the benefits of a plant-based diet. You will also hear from Dr. Joya Chandra from M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, who helped create At the Table, an online cookbook designed for childhood cancer patients. Plus, childhood cancer survivor Grace Lightbody shares how she adds healthy foods to her meals every day.
Thank you so much for your commitment to the St. Jude LIFE study. Because of your involvement, we continue to learn more to help childhood cancer survivors worldwide.
As always, f you have questions, comments, or ideas for LIFELINE stories, please contact us at the LIFELine Newsletter webpage, email sjlife@stjude.org, or call 800-775-2167.
Wishing you health and happiness,
Dr. Melissa Hudson and Dr. Kiri Ness
St. Jude LIFE Principal Investigators
