Dietary Recommendations for Patients With Myelofibrosis

Research has demonstrated that inflammation can affect the symptoms, progression, and outlook of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) like myelofibrosis due to the abnormally high inflammatory cytokine evident in this patient population. Although there is limited information available on the effect of diet on MPN symptoms and health outcomes, there are general recommendations from health care professionals that people with myelofibrosis can follow to help maintain and lower inflammation.

Experts suggest that people with myelofibrosis eat smaller meals and eat foods rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like fruits and vegetables, specifically fruits and berries and green leafy vegetables. In addition, the MPN Research Foundation states that other foods high in nutrients such turmeric, nuts, whole grains, oily fish, and green tea are essential for people with myelofibrosis and should be included in their diet.

Because treatments for myelofibrosis can weaken these patients’ immune systems, which can lead to increased risk for infection, experts also recommend they consume food that supports the immune system, including iron, vitamin A, vitamin C, copper, folate, vitamin B12, vitamin E, and vitamin D. Foods such as raw meat, fish, or eggs; unpasteurized dairy; and unwashed fruits and vegetables should be avoided. Fast food, sugary foods and beverages, ultra-processed snack foods, and heavy consumption of alcohol should also be restricted.

While dietary research on myelofibrosis is limited, researchers with the NUTRIENT Trial are investigating whether the Mediterranean diet may benefit people with MPNs, including myelofibrosis. People with myelofibrosis should work with their health care providers to develop a nutrition plan that can also help maintain a healthy weight as being underweight or overweight may increase or worsen their symptoms.

Source: Cafasso J, Patterson B. What to eat and avoid when you have myelofibrosis. Healthline. Updated December 13, 2023. Accessed April 21, 2024. https://www.healthline.com/health/myelofibrosis/foods-to-eat-and-avoid.