This article offers essential dietary tips for melanoma patients, highlighting foods to avoid such as caffeinated drinks, red and processed meats, and sugary foods. It also discusses effective therapies like OPDIVO®, emphasizing medical guidance to optimize treatment outcomes. Proper nutrition and targeted medications can support recovery and improve quality of life for those battling melanoma.

Dietary Guidelines for Supporting Melanoma Management

Melanoma is a serious skin cancer originating from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells. If not caught early, it can spread to other organs. While medical treatments are crucial, maintaining a balanced diet can significantly support recovery and symptom management. This article outlines foods that should be limited or avoided by melanoma patients and mentions important medications like OPDIVO®.

Caffeinated drinks
Beverages like coffee contain caffeine that may cause dehydration, which can interfere with cancer therapies that rely on proper hydration. Melanoma patients should consider reducing or avoiding caffeinated drinks.

Red and processed meats
The World Health Organization classifies red meats (such as beef and pork) and processed meats (like bacon, salami, and ham) as Group 1 carcinogens, due to chemicals that can promote cancer growth and worsen symptoms.

Sugary foods and sweets
Desserts and candies provide minimal nutritional value and can weaken immunity by hindering the body's ability to fight cancer. Cutting back on sugar enhances overall health and supports treatment efforts.

In addition to dietary changes, melanoma patients may discuss prescribed treatments like OPDIVO® and YERVOY® with their healthcare team:

OPDIVO® (nivolumab)
This immunotherapy is intended for advanced melanoma that cannot be removed surgically or has spread, and it’s also used for lung, bladder, and kidney cancers.

YERVOY® (ipilimumab)
Suitable for both adults and children under 12, YERVOY® helps to prevent melanoma recurrence after surgery involving lymph node removal.

Combining these medications can enhance treatment efficacy, but medical advice should be sought before initiating any therapy.