By Deirdre Burke

You may have heard or read about a number of different 'alternative diets' and it is often our instinct to want to follow these diets to optimize our health. However, the vast amount of information available can sometimes be a little confusing. When reviewing the evidence on diet it is important to:

Consider that what works for one person may not work for another person. Everyone is different.
Confirm whether the author of an article has suitable qualifications to correctly interpret data.
Be aware of any ethical dilemmas e.g. is the person promoting a particular product as a paid endorsement?

Although no diet will cure Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs), some diets can be quite helpful in controlling symptoms. However, be weary of any diets that cut out whole food groups or allow only particular foods or supplements. Overall, you should aim to have a good balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables, remembering to including a protein and carbohydrate source with each meal. Note: Do remember to consult a doctor or healthcare professional before starting a particular diet.

The following simple recipe is an example of an excellent source of protein from the tuna, beans and quinoa. The quinoa also doubles as a good carbohydrate source and is low in saturated fats.

Recipe: Tuna, Bean and Quinoa Salad

Salad

5oz can of white tuna in water (drained)
1 cup (185g) of cooked quinoa
2 chopped scallions
15oz cannellini white beans (drained)
8 cherry tomatoes chopped in quarters

Dressing:

5 tablespoons (75g) of olive oil
2 tablespoons of lemon juice
1 tablespoon of clear honey
Black pepper to season

Directions:

Combine all the salad ingredients together
Mix the dressing ingredients together and whisk vigorously
Pour the dressing over the salad