There is no standard dietary treatment for smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM), but researchers are investigating the impact of a plant-based diet that emphasizes whole foods on SMM.
SMM is a slow-growing, precancerous type of myeloma in which plasma cells make too much of a certain type of protein.
Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. Myeloma is a type of cancer that begins in these cells.
SMM usually does not cause symptoms, so regular check-ups may be necessary to monitor its progression.
Studies are currently being conducted to investigate whether following certain types of diets can slow the progression of SMM.
In this article, we’ll explain what the SMM diet is, its health benefits, what to eat and avoid, and the potential risks associated with the diet.
There is no standard diet for SMM. One of the risk factors for SMM is a diet low in plant foods. Therefore, people with SMM may want to try a plant-based diet that emphasizes the intake of whole foods and limits the intake of processed, fried, and high-sugar foods.
Research is ongoing into the effectiveness of consuming a plant-based whole food diet to slow the progression of SMM.
Always consult with a medical professional before making any major changes to your diet.
According to a 2023 study, obese people
According to a 2020 systematic review, following a plant-based diet
A 2022 research review suggests that if SMM patients develop active cancer, following a plant-based diet may improve their survival.
A plant-based diet has several other potential benefits:
However, a plant-based diet isn’t suitable for everyone, so you should consult your doctor before making any major changes to your diet.
People with SMM may want to try a vegan, whole foods, or plant-based diet. This type of diet is usually low in fat, high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limits processed foods.
There are a few foods you may want to include in your SMM diet, such as:
- Whole grains, e.g.
- There is a wide selection of fresh vegetables available, including leafy greens, carrots, zucchini, and more.
- Eat fruits such as apples, bananas, and blueberries at least three times a day.
- Plant-based proteins such as beans, tofu, and tempeh.
- Foods high in unsaturated fats:
- Plant-based milks such as oat, almond, and soy.
People with SMM should try to limit processed and instant foods as much as possible.
If you’re following a plant-based diet, try to limit certain foods, such as:
- Refined grains such as white bread, pasta and rice.
- Products with added sugar:
- Candy Bar
- cake
- cookie
- Pastries
- Sugared cereals
- Sugary drinks such as fruit drinks, sodas, and energy drinks.
- Fried foods and oily foods.
- Meat, fish and dairy products.
However, you should consult with a medical professional before making any major changes to your diet.
Before starting the SMM diet, consult your doctor to see if this diet is right for you. This diet may not be suitable for children, adolescents, pregnant or breastfeeding women.
For example, a 2023 study found that following a vegan diet
- A deficiency of vitamin B-12 can cause problems with brain and blood function and affect the DNA in your cells.
- You’re not getting enough protein.
- Iron deficiency is
Can lead Fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, etc. - Zinc deficiency is
There is a possibility that For symptoms such as diarrhea and dermatitis. - At low selenium concentrations,
It may cause Immune problems, infertility problems, thyroid problems. - Low levels of calcium and vitamin D may increase the risk of fractures.
- Mental health issues,
This may include: Depression and anxiety.
SMM is a type of precancerous condition that can arise in the plasma cells of the bone marrow.
People with SMM may want to try a vegan or plant-based diet that emphasizes whole grains, limits processed foods, and avoids refined grains and sugars.
People following the SMM diet should strive to eat more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and proteins such as tofu. They should limit refined grains, sugar products, and processed foods.
Before starting a new diet plan, consult with a medical professional. Plant-based diets are not suitable for everyone and may lead to nutritional deficiencies in some cases.
