When undergoing chemotherapy, special nutritional support is required because the chemotherapy drugs kill the healthy cells as well as the cancerous ones, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Side effects such as anemia and hair loss occur. Numerous books offer information on what to eat and what not to eat for those undergoing chemotherapy treatment.
The Chemotherapy Survival Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Get Through Treatment
"The Chemotherapy Survival Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Get Through Treatment" is written by two nurses experienced with cancer. They offer information on food as well as mind-body modalities, such as meditation and emotional support groups. The book discusses a variety of subjects along with diet, including stress reduction and how to deal with nausea. The 280-page paperback is in its third edition, having been popularized by many chemotherapy patients as well as their caregivers.
What to Eat if You Have Cancer
The author of "What to Eat if You Have Cancer (revised): Healing Foods that Boost Your Immune System" is a cancer survivor as well as a nutrition expert. The book details the various types of cancers and explains the physiology and pathology of the disease. Advice is given concerning food and vitamin, as well as specific suggestions for managing the side effects of chemotherapy and diet recommendation for both chemotherapy patients and those receiving radiation treatment.
Beating Cancer with Nutrition
Quillin's 416-page book,"Beating Cancer with Nutrition" includes a CD to complement the information in the book. Recipes to slow tumor growth are added, along with a discussion of various alternative therapies and diets, such as macrobiotics. A lengthy appendix includes information about where to find specialized products and foods, as well as a directory to doctors who offer nutritional guidance in their practices. The book is recommended by integrative medical doctors Barry Sears and Julian Whitaker.
Nature's Cancer Fighting Foods
"Nature's Cancer Fighting Foods" is authored by a nutritional counselor. The book presents cases from doctors and presents information about including proper nutrition in the diet of cancer patients. Included topics are herbs, vitamins and immunity-enhancing foods. The book provides shopping suggestions and restaurant advice as well as recipes.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Chemotherapy
- "The Chemotherapy Survival Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Get Through Treatment'; McCay,Schacher; 2009
- "What to Eat if You Have Cancer (revised): Healing Foods that Boost Your Immune System"; Keane, Chace; 2006
- "Beating Cancer with Nutrition"; Quillin; 2005
- "Nature's Cancer Fighting Foods"; Varona; 2001
