Nourishing the Body: Nutritional Support for People with Cancer

It’s hard to know how your appetite might change during cancer treatment. If you’re struggling to eat like you used to, know that many others have felt the same way. But having the right nutritional support can make all the difference.

Eating well helps you keep your strength up during this tough time. It can also help you manage side effects and boost your recovery.

The importance of balanced meals

Not sure what to eat during your treatment? Keep it simple and make sure your body gets the nutrients it needs. Focus on:

• Prioritizing protein. Include lean meats, fish, poultry, beans, nuts, tofu, and low-fat dairy products to help repair and maintain muscle tissue.

• Embracing whole grains. Brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, and whole-grain bread give you energy and essential nutrients.

• Filling up with fruits and veggies. Fresh, frozen, or canned produce have vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to keep you strong.

• Staying hydrated. Drink water, herbal tea, and low-sugar beverages to help your body function correctly.

Coping with common side effects

Your cancer treatment may cause some side effects. They can be frustrating and challenging, but they’re also common. You’re not alone if you’re feeling tired or nauseous.

There’s a bright side. You can try to manage these side effects through food. You just need to make some mindful choices. Here are some examples:

• Nausea and loss of appetite. Eat small, frequent meals. Stay away from foods with strong smells and spicy or greasy foods. Ginger or peppermint tea may help you feel better, too.

• Taste changes. Try new flavors. Take good care of your oral hygiene. Eat foods cold or at room temperature to help balance tastes and smells.

• Severe tiredness (fatigue). Choose nutrient-dense foods like nuts, seeds, and avocados to give you more energy.

• Constipation. If it’s OK with your healthcare team, increase your fiber intake and drink plenty of fluids. High- fiber foods include whole grains, raw fruits and vegetables, nuts, and prunes. Keep your digestive system moving by being physically active, too.

Special considerations for certain treatments

Depending on the cancer treatment you’re having, you may need to adjust what you’re eating. For example:

• Chemotherapy. Focus on nutrient-rich foods. Stay away from raw or undercooked meats, fish, and eggs to reduce the risk of infection.

• Radiation. If radiation bothers your stomach, eat smaller meals. And choose foods that are easy to digest.

• Surgery. You may not be able to eat a normal diet because of side effects from surgery, especially if you had surgery on your digestive tract.

Ask your healthcare provider if there are any special restrictions you should follow.

Meal planning and preparation tips

Planning and preparing meals may be the last thing you want to think about during cancer treatment. But good nutrition helps the healing process. And meal planning and prep can help you eat well. Here are some tips to make it easier:

• Plan ahead. Create a weekly meal plan and shopping list. This can reduce stress. And it helps make sure you have the ingredients you need.

• Keep it simple. Choose recipes that only have a few ingredients and are easy to make.

• Cook in batches. Prepare larger amounts of food. Freeze individual portions for future meals. This helps for when you’re having a rough day and don’t feel like cooking.

• Ask for help. Reach out to friends or family members to help with meal planning and preparation.

Resources for nutritional support

There are many trustworthy websites and other resources to help you eat healthy during treatment. Here are a few:

• American Cancer Society (ACS). The ACS offers a wealth of information on nutrition for people with cancer, including tips for managing side effects and recipes for healthy meals. Visit www.cancer.org.

• Oncology Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group. This organization has evidence-based nutrition information for people going through cancer treatments. Go to www.oncologynutrition.org.

• Local support groups and cancer centers. Many local hospitals and cancer centers offer nutrition classes, workshops, and support groups for people with cancer and their caregivers.

When to call your healthcare provider

Your provider is an important team member during your cancer treatment. They will check your weight at each appointment. It’s vital to keep them in the loop about any side effects you’re having. That includes any that are related to nutrition. Don’t feel shy about reaching out. They want to make sure you’re getting the best care possible. They can also suggest ways to prevent or treat your side effects.

Know how to contact your provider even after office hours, and on weekends and holidays. Contact your provider if you:

• Have significant weight loss or gain

• Can’t eat or drink

• Have lasting nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• Have trouble swallowing or extreme mouth pain

• Have side effects that interfere with your daily activities or well-being