Consuming adequate amounts of protein is necessary for general health, but especially so when you have cancer and are receiving chemotherapy drugs to kill cancer cells and slow their growth. This can be demanding on the body. Protein helps rebuild bodily tissues and provide nutrients to maintain health during cancer treatment. Before consuming protein supplements or changing your diet, it is best to consult with a health care professional to ensure these changes are safe and appropriate for your situation.
Function
Protein is an essential part of a healthy diet. According to the McKinley Health Center, protein is necessary for growth, tissue repair, healthy immune system function, energy in the absence of carbohydrates, production of hormones and enzymes, and preserving lean muscle mass. During cancer treatment, the body may need additional calories and proteins for the body to heal, maintain strength and fight infection.
Problems
Typically, healthy people get enough calories and protein from their diets. Chemotherapy can cause eating problems that impair a patient's ability to consume or utilize enough protein or food, creating a deficit. Side effects of chemotherapy that can lead to a lack of protein include a loss of appetite, mouth sores that make eating painful, nausea and vomiting, changes in the way foods taste, diarrhea and lactose intolerance, says the National Cancer Institute.
Types
Eating protein does not necessarily mean eating meat or meat products. Dairy foods, nuts, beans and legumes are all good sources of protein, says Chemocare.com. Hard or semi-soft cheeses can be used as a topping for pastas, soups or vegetables for added protein; peanut butter can be spread onto fruit, added into milkshakes or eaten in a sandwich; eggs, wheat germ, nuts, seeds and milk can be added into cooking; and protein shake supplements can be used for added protein. Tofu can be added to soups, salads and other meals, and chopped and cooked meats, such as chicken or fish, can be consumed with casseroles, soups, quiches, sandwiches and vegetables, according to the National Cancer Institute.
Added Benefits
Protein may provide additional benefits for individuals on chemotherapy than simply helping to keep the body healthy. According to a study published in the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine," patients receiving chemotherapy who consumed a high protein supplement drink containing ginger had significantly less nausea than patients drinking a regular protein drink with ginger and those who did not consume a supplement. High protein, combined with ginger, was found to reduce delayed nausea from chemotherapy and aid in the reduced use of anti-nausea drugs.
Warning
Prior to making major dietary changes, it is best to consult with your treatment team or a nutritionist specializing in cancer nutrition. Professionals can help advise against any foods that should be avoided because of medication interactions, as well as provide information about what might be best for your specific cancer and the chemotherapy regimen prescribed.
References
- McKinley Health Center: Macronutrients--importance of carbohydrate, protein and fat
- Chemocare.com: High protein diet
- National Cancer Institute: Eating Hints
- National Cancer Institute: Lists of foods and drinks--Ways to add protein
- Mary Ann Liebert Publishers: "The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine"; "Protein and ginger for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced delayed nausea"
