How to Plan a Diet around Cancer Treatment

Have you, or someone you know, recently been diagnosed with cancer? Receiving such a diagnosis can be confusing and overwhelming. In addition to preparing to undergo chemotherapy and other treatments, it’s a good idea to pay close attention to your diet to give your body the best possible chance to recover and eliminate or reduce side effects. Keep reading for some helpful information on planning a proper diet pre- and post-cancer treatment.

Cancer can take a toll on your relationship with food. The way the body metabolizes carbohydrates, fats, and proteins is altered, and an increase in the intake of calories may be necessary to maintain a healthy weight. A loss of appetite is not uncommon, due to the intense physical changes and the effects that a diagnosis can have on the psychological relationship with food.

The following factors should be considered when planning a proper diet:

Fresh produce. A balanced diet is essential, so be sure to include plenty of fruits and vegetables. When fresh produce is unavailable, supplement the diet with fruit and vegetable juices, dried fruits, and canned or frozen fruits and veggies.

More calories. The weight and muscle mass loss associated with cancer’s ill effects can be offset by eating a diet higher in calories and protein, such as flank steak, peanut butter, and nuts.

More fat. Fat is extremely high in calories, but a common side effect of cancer is the development of a dislike of dietary fats. To counter the lack of healthy fats in the diet, cheeses, lean meats, and yogurt are good choices.

Liquid and semi-solid foods. Some forms of cancer can lead to problems of properly chewing and swallowing food, so it may be a good idea to keep shakes on hand and to mash vegetables into a manageable consistency.

Bland foods. Spices and intense flavors can aggravate nausea, so it’s best to choose foods that are seasoned lightly, if at all.

Lukewarm temperature. Foods that are served too hot or too cold can also trigger unpleasant symptoms. 

Timed meals and snacks. When undergoing treatment, food consumed right before or after a session can ease nausea.

Milk alternatives. Many cancer patients develop lactose intolerance, a condition in which the digestive system is unable to break down dairy products and produces symptoms of bloating, diarrhea, and gas. To avoid these effects, lactase drops or pills can be taken, but dairy products may need to be avoided while therapy is being administered.  If that becomes necessary, consider soy milks and cheeses.

A cancer diagnosis is never easy. But by following the above advice, you can take a huge step in getting and staying healthy before, during and after your cancer treatment.