Nutrition for Cancer Patients

Undergoing cancer treatment upends every aspect of your life, not least of which is your diet. Eating right while living with cancer is vital to your recovery, but it is sometimes easier said than done. When your life is dedicated to treatment and checkups, it’s more important than ever to take in foods that will help replenish vital nutrients and help your body heal.

Cancer and its treatments can disrupt your body’s ability to regulate appetite, leading to profound changes in hunger cues. Cancer can consume additional energy and alter appetite-regulating hormones, while treatments like chemotherapy and surgery can compound these issues. Nausea from chemotherapy, for instance, can make it difficult to keep down what you eat, and you may end up subconsciously ignoring hunger cues over time in anticipation of nausea.

Beyond the physical aspects, emotional responses like anxiety, depression, and stress to a cancer diagnosis can also impact your appetite, potentially causing overeating, undereating, or erratic meal patterns.

SIDE EFFECTS of TREATMENT

Chemotherapy, in particular, is notable for its potential to disrupt taste and smell. It affects the cells lining the mouth and taste buds, leading to various taste disturbances, such as a metallic or bitter taste. This can result in aversions to previously enjoyed foods, affecting overall nutritional intake. Nausea and vomiting are among the most prevalent side effects experienced by people undergoing cancer treatment. These symptoms can make it challenging to maintain a regular diet and meet your nutritional needs.

Furthermore, radiation therapy and certain medications or targeted therapies can influence taste and smell perception. Radiation therapy, especially when directed at the head and neck area, can cause dryness in the mouth and changes in taste perception. Some medications may affect your sense of smell, making it challenging to appreciate the flavors in foods fully. These treatment-related alterations further complicate dietary choices and can impact your ability to maintain a balanced diet.

Stress and depression are also common feelings among those undergoing cancer treatment. These emotions can make it harder to recognize and act on hunger cues, causing disordered eating habits. Taking a holistic approach to your diet and nutrition while in treatment can allow you to process these emotions and help regulate your appetite healthily.

Most cancer treatments can damage the delicate tissues inside your mouth, developing painful sores and ulcers. These can make eating a regular diet difficult and increase the risk of infections.

Diarrhea is a common side effect of cancer treatment, often triggered by its impact on the gastrointestinal tract. One effective strategy for easing diarrhea is to reduce your fiber intake short-term. Consider a low-fiber diet to reduce the frequency and severity of diarrhea. This involves avoiding high-insoluble fiber foods like raw vegetables and bran, which can exacerbate digestive issues.

HOW TO COMBAT THE EFFECTS

Ginger and peppermint are known for their anti-nausea properties and can be consumed as ginger tea, ginger candies, or peppermint tea. Additionally, starchy foods like crackers, rice, toast, and applesauce can help ease an upset stomach. If you have trouble keeping much food down, try to eat at least one nutrient-dense, easily digestible food each day, such as avocados.

Eating smaller portions more frequently can help manage nausea by avoiding overloading the digestive system. Focusing on mild, bland, and easily digestible foods in snack-like quantities can be gentler on the stomach and may help alleviate queasiness.

One essential strategy to help with painful sores is adopting a soft diet rich in foods that are easy to swallow and gentle on sensitive oral tissues. Consider incorporating mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, scrambled eggs, and oatmeal into your meals. These options provide essential nutrients and reduce the risk of further irritation, ensuring that you receive the necessary nourishment even during this challenging phase.

Maintaining proper oral hygiene is also pivotal in addressing mouth sores and ulcers. Using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, gently brush your teeth after each meal and before bedtime. Rinse your mouth with a saline solution or a prescribed mouthwash, following the guidance of your healthcare team.

Staying well-hydrated is paramount for your overall health and the well-being of your mouth. Regularly sipping on water throughout the day helps moisten your mouth, reducing the risk of dryness that can exacerbate mouth sores. These comprehensive strategies aim to enhance comfort, support healing, and maintain good oral health during cancer treatment.

If you experience diarrhea, it’s crucial to up your water intake to make up for it. Diarrhea can leave you severely dehydrated, so stay ahead of the symptoms by drinking plenty of water and electrolyte drinks.

On the flip side, though, constipation is also common among people with cancer. Many medications list constipation as a side effect, and the decreased levels of physical activity also contribute to the problem. Eating fiber-rich foods like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes helps to alleviate it and encourage regular bowel movements.

DIET & FITTING YOUR LIFESTYLE

Cancer can profoundly disrupt the way your body processes and absorbs nutrients. This can result in nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, making it challenging to maintain a balanced diet and potentially causing weight loss and nutrient deficiencies.

So, how do you synthesize all those symptom-specific diet tips into a diet plan that fits your lifestyle?

It follows that if your body is having trouble digesting and processing your nutrients, you may develop nutrient deficiencies. Combatting weight loss and malnutrition during cancer treatment necessitates a proactive approach that begins with recognizing the signs and implementing targeted strategies to prevent further decline.

The first step is to work with your healthcare team to determine which symptoms cause your weight loss: is it nausea, diarrhea, a digestive issue, or a mix of symptoms? Once you’ve identified these symptoms, your healthcare team can provide valuable guidance on dietary modifications tailored to your unique circumstances.

Maintaining a balanced diet is of paramount importance for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. But a “balanced” diet is modeled after more than just the food pyramid you learned about in elementary school. As a matter of fact, the US. Department of Agriculture has shifted toward MyPlate, which places a greater emphasis on having fruits, veggies, and proteins with every meal.

MACRONUTRIENTS & MICRONUTRIENTS

When planning your meals, it’s most important to take into account your macro- and micronutrients. Macronutrients, which include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, form the foundation of your diet. Micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, are critical in various bodily functions. Vitamins like vitamins B, C, and D and minerals like calcium and iron are essential during cancer treatment. These nutrients support immune function, bone health, and overall well-being.

CARBOHYDRATES

Carbohydrates are a primary energy source for combating fatigue often associated with cancer treatments. Incorporating complex carbohydrates like whole grains, vegetables, and fruits can provide sustained energy and help stabilize blood sugar levels.

PROTEINS

Proteins are essential for tissue repair and immune function. Adequate protein intake aids in healing and helps maintain muscle mass, which is often at risk during cancer treatment. Lean protein sources like poultry, fish, beans, and tofu are excellent.

FATS

Fats are essential for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins (micronutrients) and provide a concentrated energy source. Opt for foods with healthy fats like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil while minimizing saturated and trans fats.

Eating small, frequent meals ensures a continuous supply of nutrients and calories to support your energy needs. This approach helps prevent energy crashes resulting from consuming large meals, providing a more stable and sustained energy source throughout the day. If you’re experiencing fatigue as a side effect of treatment, this can make a significant difference in your daily life.

Portion control goes hand in hand with monitoring your macronutrients. By being informed about how much and when you eat, you can get ahead of some of your symptoms and maintain your energy throughout the day. Collaborating with a registered dietitian can guide you in determining portion sizes tailored to your unique needs.

Nausea and appetite changes can make consuming three large meals a day challenging. Opting for smaller, more frequent meals and snacks can help maintain essential nutrient intake without overwhelming your digestive system. You can eat five to six small meals daily rather than the traditional three.

Monitoring fluid intake is crucial during cancer treatment, as most treatment methods can leave you feeling dehydrated or depleted. Proper hydration, though, is about more than just water.

Clear fluids like water, herbal teas, and broths can help maintain adequate hydration, but when you’re undergoing cancer treatments, you’re also losing a lot of micronutrients. Electrolyte-rich beverages, such as sports drinks, can be beneficial if you’re experiencing significant fluid loss. Maintaining proper electrolyte balance is crucial for various bodily functions, including nerve function, heart rhythm, and blood pressure regulation.

Finding ways to make hydration fun and flavorful can also encourage you to maintain optimal fluid intake. To add a natural flavor, consider infusing your water with slices of fresh fruits like lemon, lime, or berries. Herbal teas, both hot and iced, can offer a variety of flavors and are a refreshing alternative to plain water. You might also experiment with crafting your hydrating concoctions, like homemade fruit-infused sparkling water or flavored ice cubes.

If you have allergies, dietary restrictions, or gastrointestinal conditions like IBS or celiac disease, you must approach your nutrition with more care than most. Consider enlisting the help of an oncology dietitian or allergist to guide you through treatment, as your dietary needs require more planning.

Cancer can profoundly disrupt the way your body processes and absorbs nutrients. This can result in nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, making it challenging to maintain a balanced diet and potentially causing weight loss and nutrient deficiencies.

THE FOOD

Meal planning is crucial to accommodate dietary restrictions and ensure a well-rounded, safe diet. Home cooking offers greater control over ingredients, making avoiding allergens or sensitive foods easier. If home cooking presents a challenge for you, consider enlisting the help of friends and family or finding a meal delivery service to send pre-prepped ingredients directly to your home.

Nutrient-dense foods, often lauded as “superfoods,” provide essential vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds without excessive calories. Incorporating these foods into your diet can help you maintain strength and vitality while managing the challenges of cancer treatment.

Fresh, frozen, or canned (without added sugars or salt) fruits and vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. Aim to fill half your plate with these colorful options to boost your overall nutrient intake. Berries, leafy greens, sweet potatoes, and broccoli are excellent choices.

Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat pasta, and oats are higher in fiber and nutrients than refined grains. They provide sustained energy and can help regulate digestion.

Include sources of healthy fats like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil in your diet. These fats can support overall health. Foods with healthy fats are especially essential if you are striving to gain weight during treatment.

By eating foods packed with good nutrients, you can ensure that you’re getting the most out of your limited appetite.

You don’t have to sacrifice flavor for function with These recipes. THEY all taste good without upsetting your stomach.

  • Avocado and Mango Smoothie: This tasty smoothie is a source of of vitamin C and healthy fats.

  • Blue Superhero Smoothie: If you love blueberries, this simple smoothie is for you.

  • Horchata-Style Banana Smoothie: Who doesn’t love horchata? This smoothie is a nutritious version of the delicious Mexican drink.

  • Papaya and Almond Smoothie: The American Cancer Society’s recipe for this sweet and nutty smoothie is easy to make and is great for summertime.

  • Spinach Bean Soup: This meatless soup recipe from the American Heart Association is quick to cook and makes for a great family dinner.

  • Avocado Taco Soup: This soup is high in protein and fiber and packs some heat. Perfect for chilly winter nights.

  • Mexicali Soup: Tomatoes and black beans take center stage in this delicious soup. Serve with chicken to make it an entree.

  • Mushroom Barley Soup: Barley is an excellent whole grain that provides fiber and vitamin B. This recipe is flavorful and comforting in equal.

When your appetite is low, and you need to pack as many nutrients as possible into your snack, choose one of these recipes.

  • Breakfast Quinoa Bowl: This breakfast bowl contains 440 calories and makes for a great day’s first meal.

  • Date Nut Granola Bars: These DIY granola bars from the American Heart Society feature popped sorghum for texture and toasted oats for flavor. Each bar packs approximately 173 calories.

  • Deviled Eggs with Avocado: The potluck staple, made nutritious. This recipe tops out at 130 calories per egg and offers 7 grams of protein per serving.

  • Egg Donuts with Avocado: These donuts are great to make with kids. They provide 80 calories per donut; you can season them to your tastes.

  • Nutty Whole Grain Banana Bread: The American Institute of Cancer Research published this warm, spiced recipe for banana bread. The nuts help provide protein and healthy fats, and each serving contains approximately 220 calories.

  • Lentil Bowl with Avocado Crema: At 420 calories per serving, this would make for an excellent and filling dinner.

  • Berry Avocado Baked Oat Bars: These fun oat bars are 150 calories per serving, but you know what they say – you can never have just one!

  • Mango Lassi Overnight Oats: This recipe is tangy, sweet, and hard to resist. One serving contains 420 calories that will taste great in every bite.

Sometimes, you just want comfort food. Here are our favorite recipes that’ll make you feel cozy in no time.

It seems counterintuitive, but sometimes, the cure to nausea is a good snack. Here are our recommendations.

  • Avocado Pickles: Sometimes, the best way to get rid of a nauseous spell is to eat some sodium. These avocado pickles provide a quick burst of nutrients in a small bite.

  • Golden Milk Popsicles: The turmeric and ginger in these popsicles can help settle your stomach, and the Greek yogurt adds some healthy fats to the recipe as well.

  • Slow Cooker Chicken Soup: This set-it-and-forget-it chicken soup recipe is full of electrolytes and healthy fats and will ease your stomach like canned chicken soup did when you were a kid.

  • Cantaloupe and Mint Granita: The mint in this recipe is great for helping ease your nausea. This frozen drink is sweet, smooth, and soothing.

  • Avocado Ginger & Honey Spread: The ginger in this recipe will help settle your stomach, while the honey will help stabilize your blood sugar.

  • Avocado Lemon Ginger Vichyssoise: If you’ve never had vichyssoise, a French style of soup that’s blended and served cold, this nausea-busting recipe is a great place to start.

Staying hydrated is fun when you make one of these drinks.

When it’s hard to chew and swallow without pain, you need soft food that tastes and feels good. Here are ulcer-friendly recipes we recommend.

  • Butternut Squash and Apple Soup: This recipe from Sloan Kettering is an easy way to get calories and nutrients, even if it’s difficult to chew and swallow that day.

  • Fruit Pops: These easy fruit pops are great for cooling down the pain you may experience from sores and ulcers.

  • Watermelon and Mint Gazpacho: This sweet gazpacho features tomatoes, mint, and cilantro alongside the watermelon, making this cold soup as flavorful as it is soothing.

  • Chilled Avocado Soup: Cold soups are excellent for times of pain. This one contains healthy fats to keep you fuller for longer.

  • Berry Avocado Immunity Bowl: Customize this smoothie bowl with fewer nuts and crunchy ingredients. The cool blended fruit will feel good on the inside of your mouth.

  • Creamy Sweet Potato Soup: Sweet potato provides vitamin A, which is needed for helping your body heal and recover.

  • Tortilla Espanola: This warm dish, made of onions and scalloped potatoes, is both soft and non-irritating.

  • Avocado Gazpacho: Another cold soup, this gazpacho is comforting and flavorful in equal measure.

Treatment can zap your energy entirely. These recipes have your back when your motivation is all but gone.

  • Avocado Apple Peanut Butter Wrap: This easy wrap makes for a quick breakfast or lunch.

  • Avocado Toast: This take on avocado toast features sweet potatoes and scrambled eggs, making it an excellent macronutrient source.

  • Tomato and Ricotta Toast: Sliced tomatoes and spiced ricotta make for a flavorful but simple snack.

  • Avocado Fruit Kebabs: Some days, you only have the energy to stab some fruit with a toothpick. This recipe is for those days.

  • Avocado Pesto Dip: This easy dip just requires that you mix all ingredients into a food processor. Use with your favorite vegetables or chips.

  • Avocado Banana Granola Clusters: These granola clusters pack a lot of punch. Make a few ahead of time and snack on them throughout the week.

Resource Guide created by https://loveonetoday.com/nutrition/nutrition-for-cancer-patients-a-comprehensive-resource-guide/ and approved to share with the Liv & Let community by Angelo Chongo - Grow Resolve - 1/16/24

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