Define Vitamins, Minerals and Phytochemicals requirement for cancer patients?

Several vitamins particularly those of the B-group are essential to promote adequate metabolism of energy and protein. Vitamin A, C and E should be provided liberally as they help in reducing the morbidity and mortality due to cancer, (required for tissue synthesis, cell differentiation and for maintaining cell integrity).

Among the minerals, zinc and selenium are particularly important and their intake should be slightly increased by giving supplements, The role of phytochemicals (carotenoids, flavonoids, plant sterols, allium compounds, indols, phenols etc.) is gaining importance over the past Few years. Incorporation of good amount of fresh fruits1 vegetables preferably with their edible peels, soyabean and certain Indian condiments1 herbs such as turmeric can help in promoting the dietary intake of phytochemicals. The role of peigallacatechin gallate in green tea, curcumin in turmeric, genistein in soya and Colic acid in reducing the morbidity associated with cancer is under investigation.