Cancer patients have different treatment options, depending on the type and severity of their cancer. One of the most effective treatments for cancer is chemotherapy. Though chemotherapy can be life-saving, it also causes uncomfortable side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, mouth sores, vomiting and weight loss. Eating after chemotherapy can be a challenge, but choosing the right foods can help manage the side effects and promote recovery.
Soups
Soups such as chicken noodle, lentil and tortilla soup are popular choices for after chemotherapy because they are easy to swallow and gentle on the stomach. Dysphasia, or difficulty swallowing, is a common side effect of chemotherapy, according to the Chemo Care website, so smooth soups are typically better than chunky versions. Another benefit of soups is that they can replace some of the water lost due to diarrhea or night sweats. Homemade soups can be full of vegetables, which have energizing vitamins and minerals. Soups should be warm but not too hot to avoid a food aversion in chemotherapy patients.
Mashed Potatoes
Another option for chemotherapy patients to eat after treatments is mashed potatoes. Mashed potatoes are rich in carbohydrates, which provide the body with energy. They are also smooth and easy to swallow. Chemo Care states that smooth and bland foods help chemotherapy patients by reducing the pain of mouth sores.
Supplemental Shakes
Sometimes chemotherapy patients simply lack the appetite to eat a healthy meal. This is why supplemental shakes such as Boost or Ensure can be beneficial. Registered dietitians Karen Wagner and Jaimie Bornstein of Today's Dietitian state that pre-made supplemental shakes are easy for chemotherapy patients to grab when they lack the energy and appetite to cook a meal. Additionally, supplemental shakes are fortified with protein, vitamins and minerals that the body needs to heal. They come in flavors such as strawberry and chocolate and are typically easy on the stomach.
Baked Chicken Breasts
According to Today's Dietitian, protein is one of the most important nutrients for the chemotherapy patient, since it encourages the recovery and growth of tissues and stimulates the immune system. Today's Dietitian recommends that cancer patients eat at least .8g of protein per kg of body weight each day. Chicken is a source of protein and is also bland and easy for most people to stomach. Avoiding spices like curry or Cajun seasoning on chicken is important for reducing side effects like diarrhea and nausea. Baked, skinless chicken breasts are not only rich in protein but also high in energizing iron and low in fat.
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