What is bladder cancer?
Bladder cancer is an abnormal growth of cells within the bladder. This growth typically originates from the lining of the bladder and will grow into the muscle. Symptoms related to bladder cancer include hematuria (most common), lower back pain, frequent urination, pain while urinating, and urinary frequency/urgency. Although these symptoms may indicate signs of bladder cancer, they could also be signs of other abnormalities in the urinary tract and urologic evaluation is necessary.
Evaluation
Evaluation may include imaging studies such as an ultrasound or a CT scan, an urine analysis, an urine cytology, and/or a cystoscopy.
Treatment
Treatment involves the surgical removal of the tumor which is done cystoscopically. Once the pathology is obtained, additional treatments may be necessary in the form of intravesical therapy or more extensive surgery.
Diet
High in water
High in fruits and vegetables
High in fiber
High in vegetable protein
Low in animal protein
Low in fat
Low in alcohol
Low in caffeine
Water
Drink at least 2 liters of water a day. Decaffeinated teas and coffees can count toward the goal level, but beverages that contain caffeine can not.
Fruits
Aim to intake at least 2 whole fruits a day. A variety of fruits (structure and color) should be consumed as well.
Vegetables
Consume at least 4 servings of vegetables a day. A variety of colored vegetables should be selected as well. Aim to have at least 2 servings of green vegetables, 1 serving of orange vegetables and 1 serving of red vegetables each day. White and yellow vegetables should be included when available.
Fiber
Consume plenty of fiber, 25 to 35 grams a day. Sources of fiber include whole grains, bran, vegetables, legumes and fruits.
Vegetable Protein
Aim to have at least 1 meal a day that includes vegetable protein rather than animal protein (turkey, chicken, fish, eggs, cheese, pork, red meat, etc.)
Low in fat
Fat should be kept to 20% of your diet each day. The sources of the 20% fat should be of monounsaturated fats such as olive oil. Saturated fats should be kept to a minimum.
Sample Meal Plan
Breakfast
whole grain cereal
milk
apple
Lunch
whole grain bread
animal protein
lettuce and tomato
carrots
mustard
Dinner
vegetable protein
rice
broccoli
red and yellow bell peppers
Dessert
low fat cottage cheese
pear