A balanced, nutritional diet is important for everyone, but patients with cancer require higher nutritional needs, especially during recovery from chemotherapy or radiation. Diets recommended for cancer patients are those with high caloric content, meaning high protein ingredients. Protein is found in animal products like dairy, meat and poultry. These foods should be a part of a cancer patient's diet to provide the body with enough nutrition.
Meat
Meat has a high amount of protein and calories. Fat can be trimmed off of meat to reduce the amount of saturated fats in the diet. Red meat is particularly high in protein, but other meats like poultry can be served to cancer patients. Other types of poultry, like turkey, are also acceptable. Lamb is a more expensive but less fatty option from beef or pork. Fish is also a good source of protein as well as Omega-3 fatty acids. Fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna and trout contain Omega-3 fatty acids which help reduce cholesterol levels.
Dairy
Dairy is a good source of protein for cancer patients, and it can be added to foods in recipes that are more appealing. Dairy products like milk and cheese are good sources of protein and vitamins. Whole milk can be added to recipes to provide higher calorie content. Eggs are an excellent food for breakfast, and they can be added to casseroles, pancakes, French toast and macaroni and cheese. The patient can also eat egg beaters in place of raw eggs. Cookie batter normally requires high amounts of eggs in the ingredients.
Beans and Nuts
Beans and nuts are a good source of proteins, and they are high in caloric content. Beans are an option, but they might not be a good source during the day, since the metabolism of these foods can cause gas and bloating. Nuts have high fat and high protein content. Nuts like peanuts are healthy for cancer patients. Peanut butter is a good ingredient that is appetizing in recipes or on a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Peanuts, almonds, cashews and pistachios are healthy snacks, or they can be added to foods like salads and casseroles.
