Nutrition during cancer treatment is not about curing the disease; it’s about supporting the person to maintain strength, tolerate treatment, improve quality of life, and prevent malnutrition. Cancer and its treatments (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery) can cause severe side effects like nausea, taste changes, mouth sores, fatigue, and appetite loss. The goal of nutrition shifts to getting enough calories and protein to keep your body functioning.
Dietary Guidelines
– Prioritize Nutrient-Dense Foods: Every bite needs to count. Focus on lean proteins (eggs, chicken, fish, Greek yogurt, tofu) to maintain muscle mass and immune function. Complex carbs (oatmeal, brown rice, sweet potatoes) for steady energy. Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, nut butters) for concentrated, easy-to-eat calories.
– Emphasize Plant-Based Foods: Fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants and phytochemicals that help reduce inflammation. If your immune system is compromised (low white blood cell count), you may need to avoid raw produce and stick to cooked or well-washed options.
– Stay Hydrated: Dehydration is a common reason for hospitalization during chemo. Drink water, broth, clear juices, popsicles, and herbal tea. If you have mouth sores, use a straw.
– Manage Side Effects with Food:
– Nausea: Eat small, frequent, bland meals (crackers, toast, rice). Avoid strong smells and greasy/fatty foods. Ginger and peppermint can help.
– Taste changes (e.g., metallic taste): Use plastic utensils. Marinate meats in sweet or tart sauces (fruit juice, vinegar). Try cold or room-temperature foods, which have less smell.
– Fatigue: Don’t cook. Stock up on ready-to-eat healthy meals, or ask for help. Eat your biggest meal when you have the most energy (often mid-day).
– Seek Support: Ask your oncology center for a referral to a Registered Dietitian (RD) or Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) . They can provide personalized strategies and often recommend safe, effective oral supplements if needed.
Author: Sanjay Kr
