People with cancer should pay attention to their diet. A healthy diet with adequate calories can help the body respond better to treatment, fight infection and increase energy levels. Cancer patients often discover, however, that treatment causes side effects such as nausea, vomiting, mouth sores, dry mouth and a metallic taste in the mouth. Factor in other side effects such as fatigue and depression, and it is easy to see why cancer patients often struggle to maintain their weight.
Step 1
Concentrate on calories. Nausea and fatigue make it difficult for many people undergoing cancer treatments to eat enough to maintain their weight. Think of ways to add calories to the foods you would normally eat, without increasing the amount of food you eat. Add healthy oils such as olive oil to your food during preparation. Snack on high-calorie foods such as dried fruits, and add calories by drinking milk and juices instead of diet soda.
Step 2
Eat protein. Protein provides nutrients your body needs to heal and provides important calories as well. Choose healthy sources of protein, such as fish, nuts and cheese, and don't feel guilty about splurging on fatty proteins, such as red meat, on occasion.
Step 3
Choose foods that alleviate symptoms. If you develop sores in your mouth and throat, milkshakes are soothing and full of calories. If you suffer from constipation, add prune juice to your daily menu. If you develop diarrhea, add high-fiber foods such as oatmeal and applesauce. If you suffer from nausea, eat dry, relatively bland food when you wake up and throughout the day. Crackers, cereal without milk and toast are good choices.
Step 4
Stay hydrated. It is easy to become dehydrated without realizing it, if you develop nausea or diarrhea. Staying hydrated also reduces the incidence of constipation and relieves dry mouth. In addition to water, drink sports beverages and fruit juices.
Step 5
Plan frequent meals. People suffering from nausea from cancer treatment often have a low appetite. Eating a small meal every two to three meals is one way to fit all of your nutritional needs into the day without feeling overwhelmed or making yourself sick. Include protein and carbohydrates in each meal, and choose healthy foods that you enjoy.
Tips and Warnings
- Ask for help. If fatigue prevents you from grocery shopping, ask a friend or family member to go for you, so you have healthy food on hand.
Things You'll Need
- High-calorie foods
- Protein-rich foods
- Dry carbohydrates
- Juices
