Mitra CanCare Foundation organized the Swasth Mitra webinar on 16 May 2026 to improve the awareness of the role of nutrition in healing chronic illnesses. The webinar was delivered by Dr. Shilpa Sharathkumar, Co-founder and Chief Wellness Physician at Swastha. The webinar was moderated by Mrs Bharathi Vatsa who welcomed the audience and introduced Dr. Shilpa.
Dr. Shilpa Sharathkumar, shares evidence-based insights on how holistic nutrition can support individuals navigating cancer and other chronic conditions. The talk underlines the principle that food is medicine and that proper daily nourishment possesses the inherent power to care for the body at a cellular level.

While dietary choices cannot replace medical interventions, targeted nutrition gently and consistently strengthens the body’s immune system, aids tissue repair, and directly enhances the quality of life during stress or systemic illness. Chronic illnesses or intense treatments like chemotherapy and radiation often present physical barriers to eating. Consequently, emphasizing high-quality nutrition over sheer volume ensures that even partial meals effectively deliver essential nutrients. Consuming the right quantity of proteins, managing energy and including immunity boosters form the core pillars of diet and wellness.

Protein serves as the building block for cell and tissue repair. It is consumed at higher rates when fighting chronic diseases or undergoing muscle-degenerating treatments like chemotherapy. To combat muscle loss and fatigue, a substantial portion of protein—sourced from accessible items like eggs, chicken, fish, legumes, chana, peanuts, and thick curd—should be featured in every main meal.

Chronic fatigue can be stabilized by consuming balanced meals that integrate whole grains, proteins, and healthy fats (such as a spoonful of ghee or avocado). Small quantities of dietary fat act as a digestive aid, facilitating complete protein absorption and ensuring a continuous energy supply.

Here is a quick nutrition guide for your reference: