Do neutropenic diets really help protect people during cancer treatment?
Neutropenic (nu-tro-PEE-nik) diets aim to protect people if their immune system weakens during cancer treatment. Most food contains some bacteria, but normally our immune systems quickly destroy it. People with fewer white blood cells to provide immune function may not be able to do so, and neutropenic diets can help these patients avoid risky food and drink. Neutropenic diets usually allow: meat, chicken and fish only if cooked well-done; vegetables and fruits only if cooked, canned or frozen; pasteurized canned or frozen juice; vacuum-packed luncheon meat; and well water if boiled at least one minute. Yogurt and other dairy products with active cultures, soft or mold-containing cheese (Brie, feta, blue), and raw or stir-fried vegetables and fruits must be avoided. Although these diets are often prescribed in cancer treatment centers and hospitals, research support is limited; some studies suggest that the extra steps in a neutropenic diet may add little additional protection. But sin
