Emphasis on healthy eating habits is vital during chemotherapy treatment, as more nutrients and energy is required in order to properly heal, according to the National Cancer Institute. Healthy foods such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits and proteins may alleviate or prevent chemotherapy side effects and improve the effectiveness of the treatment. As a safety measure, chemotherapy patients should discuss dietary changes with a physician before committing to a new food diet.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants, nutrients that contribute to fighting infection and strengthening the immune system. Antioxidants such as beta-carotene, selenium, lutein and lycopene may help help prevent further cancer. Vegetables and fruits such as cherries, tomatoes, berries, kale, spinach, guava, apricots, papaya, oranges, watermelon and grapefruit are valuable sources of antioxidants, according to the National Cancer Institute. Chemotherapy patients should incorporate vegetables and fruits into meals and snacks to reap optimum health benefits. They should also be thoroughly washed to prevent contamination, which can to infection in a weak immune system. Fruit smoothies and vegetables juices are good snack for patients who have trouble consuming solid foods or low appetite.
Whole Grains
Complex carbohydrates are important for chemotherapy patients, according to a September 2009 article in Today's Dietitian. Whole grain foods such as long-grain brown rice, oatmeal, cereals and whole grain breads are preferred over "white" or refined carbohydrates. Whole grains contain a variety of nutrients such as antioxidants, which combat disease, and fiber, which helps treat and reduce constipation. Chemotherapy patients should include a range of 45 to 65 percent of carbohydrates to their diet for the best nutritional benefits, reports the American Cancer Society.
Lean Protein
Protein-calorie malnutrition is common among chemotherapy patients, according to the National Cancer Institute. Protein provides amino acids, which are vital for muscle regrowth and tissue repair in the body. Legumes, eggs, fish, dairy products and meat are healthy protein options. Chemotherapy patients should also seek prepared protein foods such as prepared protein drinks, pudding cups or low-fat yogurt. Nuts are dense in calories and contain healthy fats such as protein and fat. Patients having trouble maintaining a high caloric intake can add nuts to meals and snacks.
References
- American Cancer Society: Low Fiber Foods
- National Cancer Institute: Effect of Cancer Treatment on Nutritionc
- Today's Dietitian: Nutrition Management During Chemotherapy, Karen Wagner, MS, RD, LDN, and Jaimie Bornstein, MPH, RD, CDN, Sept, 2009to
- Cancer Journal for Clinicians: Nutrition and Physical Activity During and After Cancer Treatment: An American Cancer Society Guide for Informed Choices, 2006
- University of Pennsylvania: Neutropenia Tip Sheet
