I am a Clinical Nutritionist specialising in Oncology Nutrition dedicated to helping cancer patients optimise their health, manage treatment side effects, and improve quality of life through evidence-based nutrition.
My passion for nutrition and patient advocacy derives from my own experience being diagnosed with stage 4 non-Hodgkin follicular lymphoma in 2014. Recognising the lack of nutritional guidance in cancer care, I have made it my mission to help bridge that gap by providing practical, evidence-based support to cancer patients as they navigate their health challenges.
I believe that nutrition is an essential part of cancer care, not an alternative to medical treatment but a crucial complement to it. Looking ahead, I hope to contribute to cancer research and work within oncology to help further integrate nutrition into cancer care.
When facing a diagnosis like Follicular Lymphoma (FL), many patients naturally seek ways to support their health alongside standard treatments. While medical interventions remain essential, growing research highlights the role of nutrition in managing inflammation, improving gut health and avoiding malnutrition, which can benefit FL patients at all stages.
Chronic inflammation is closely linked to lymphoma progression, and since 70-80% of immune cells are found in the gut, a well-balanced microbiome is now believed to positively influence immune function (Wiertsema, et al. 2021). By focusing on an anti-inflammatory, gut-supporting diet, and identifying nutritional deficiencies, patients may enhance their overall well-being, improve treatment tolerance, and potentially reduce the risk of disease progression (Cancemi et al.,2023).
Follicular Lymphoma is an indolent (slow-growing) form of Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, but it still remains incurable. Long term (chronic) inflammation may play a role in how the disease starts and grows (Carbone et al., 2014).
Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection. But when it sticks around for too long, it can weaken the immune system and alter the internal environment which can contribute to the onset of cancer and promote cancer growth (Nigam et al., 2023).
Reducing inflammation through lifestyle and dietary choices could be a supportive strategy for long-term management in conjunction with treatment therapies available to FL patients.
The gut microbiome is a complex community of microorganisms (e.g. bacteria and fungi) that reside in the digestive tract. These play a crucial role in various bodily functions, including digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune system development. Some of these microorganisms are good for us and some are not so good for us. Sometimes we can experience an overgrowth of bacteria that isn’t good for us, leading to an imbalance of gut bacteria (dysbiosis) and can lead to negative influences such as inflammation and low nutrient absorption (Wiertsema et al., 2021).
A healthy gut microbiome is a key factor when managing inflammation and keeping the immune system strong. Many people with lymphoma have an imbalance in gut bacteria without even realizing. FL is more often found in western societies such as Europe, North American and Australia/New Zealand where dietary intakes are typically higher in ultra processed foods and lack important nutrients such as fibre, which is crucial for feeding and maintaining a healthy gut microbiome (Al-Khazaleh et al., 2024).
For FL patients, maintaining a diverse, fibre-rich diet may support beneficial gut bacteria and reduce systemic inflammation.
While nutrition won’t cure Follicular Lymphoma, it plays a key role in reducing inflammation, supporting gut health, and improving quality of life. By prioritizing whole, nutritent-dense foods and making small sustainable changes, FL patients may experience better energy levels, improved digestion, and a more resilient immune system. Still feeling confused? Be sure to seek out a Clinical Nutritionist or Dietician that specializes in oncology nutrition to support you on your journey and help ensure the best possible health outcome.
Al-Khazaleh, A. K., Chang, D., Munch, G. W., & Bhuyan, D. J. (2024). The gut connection: Exploring the possibility of implementing gut microbial metabolites in lymphoma treatment. Cancers, 16(8), 1464.
Cancemi, G., Cicero, N., Allegra, A., & Gangemi, S. (2023). Effect of diet and oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of lymphoproliferative disorders. Antioxidants, 12(9), 1674.
Carbone, A., Tripodo, C., Carlo-Stella, C., Santoro, A., & Gloghini, A. (2014). The role of inflammation in lymphoma. Inflammation and Cancer, 315-333.
Chang, E. T., Balter, K. M., Torrang, A., Smedby, K. E., Melbye, M., Sundstrom, C., … & Adami, H. O. (2006). Nutrient intake and risk of non-hodgkin’s lymphoma. American journal of epidemiology, 164(12), 1222-1232.
Deis, L., Quiroga, A. M., & De Rosas, M. I. (2021). Coloured compounds in fruits and vegetables and health. Psychiatry and Neuroscience Update: Epistemology to Clinical Psychiatry-Vol. IV, 343-358.
Nigam, M., Mishra, A. P., Deb, V. K., Dimri, D. B., Tiwari, V., Bangau, S. G., …& Radu, A. F. (2023). Evaluation of the association of chronic inflammation and cancer: Insights and implications. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 164, 115015.
Pardini, R. S. (2006). Nutritional intervention with omega-3 fatty acids enhances tumor response to anti-neoplastic agents. Chemico-biological interactions, 162(2), 89-105.
Tristan Asensi, M., Napoletano, A., Sofi, F., & Dinu, M. (2023). Low-grade inflammation and ultra-processed foods consumption: a review. Nutrients, 15(6), 1546.
Wiertsema, S. P., van Bergenhenegouwen, J., Garssen, J., & Knippels, L. M. (2021). The interplay between the gut microbiome and the immune system in the context of infectious diseases throughout life and the role of nutrition in optimizing treatment strategies. Nutrients, 13(3), 886.
At the Follicular Lymphoma Foundation, we’re dedicated to driving progress in research and treatment for follicular lymphoma patients worldwide.
There are many ways to join and support the FLF. You can donate, participate in fundraising efforts, or engage with our community, each action, no matter how small, has a meaningful impact. Together, we’re stronger, and your involvement brings hope and inspiration to those affected by follicular lymphoma.
Join our mission in finding a cure for follicular lymphoma today.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalised guidance and treatment options.
