In the wake of her recent cancer diagnosis, the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has vowed to approach her recovery with a holistic focus on her mind, body, and spirit.
As the nation rallies behind her, the royal is determined to make the necessary lifestyle changes that will give her the best chance at a speedy comeback.
On March 22, Kensington Palace released a video in which Kate announced that tests following her surgery in January revealed cancer.
“This of course came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family,” said part of the statement.
She thanked the support received and announced that she will take time away from royal duties to undergo preventative chemotherapy and focus on her recovery.
“We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment. My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery,” said.
Kate Middleton’s lifestyle changes for a speedy comeback
During her break from the spotlight over the Easter holidays, Kate has been able to prioritize her well-being and map out a strategic plan for her road to recovery.
“This time away has provided a much-needed sanctuary for the royal as she undergoes preventative chemotherapy,” explains Caroline Mason, a renowned nutritionist and co-founder of Baldo and Mason.
One of the key areas Kate is addressing is her diet.
“She should now be making every effort to eliminate any foods that are inflammatory, such as processed items and animal fats,” advises Mason. “Prolonged inflammation can weaken the immune system, which will already be low because of the chemotherapy.”
This means Kate will be avoiding alcohol, sugar, wheat, dairy, and gluten for the time being.
Instead, Princess will focus on a nutrient-rich regimen based on lean organic proteins, healthy fats.
Kate will have to eat 10 to 12 servings of fruits and vegetables a day and complex carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes, brown rice, quinoa and buckwheat.
“This will give her body all the nourishment it needs as she undergoes treatment,” Mason explains.
While Kate has always been an avid athlete, enjoying activities like tennis, running, cycling, and rowing, Professor Ramia Mokbel, a consultant dermatologist with a specialty in skin cancer, advises that she should now focus on “gentle movement” during chemotherapy.
“Regular aerobic exercise can help combat fatigue and improve overall well-being during treatment,” Mokbel says.
To address the potential side effects of chemotherapy, Kate is also incorporating remedies like ginger tea to alleviate nausea and iced gloves and boots to reduce numbness in her extremities.
“During this time, patients are advised to avoid most supplements, except for vitamin D3,” Mokbel adds.
Kate Middleton’s holistic approach to her cancer recovery will bring her physical, mental and spiritual well-being.
While Kensington Palace has chosen not to disclose details of the cancer, Kate showed her gratitude for the understanding of her request for privacy at this time.
“The Prince and Princess are both enormously touched by the kind messages from people here in the UK, across the Commonwealth and around the world in response to Her Royal Highness’ message. They are extremely moved by the public’s warmth and support and are grateful for the understanding of their request for privacy at this time,” A Kensington Palace spokesman said.