Breast cancer patients commonly undergo chemotherapy or radiation or take certain medications that alter their appetite and diet. It is critical to continue to eat a well-balanced diet while fighting breast cancer to prevent fatigue and weight loss. Eating the right foods may decrease recovery time, infection and help you better tolerate the side effects of treatment.
Weight Loss
A side effect of breast cancer treatments may be weight loss. Chemotherapy causes patients to feel nauseous, and you may no longer have an appetite. Eat small snacks and meals throughout the day instead of large heavy meals. Increase your protein and caloric intake. You may not be as active during breast cancer treatment but may require additional food to prevent weight loss. Add whole milk and cream to soups, eggs, mashed potatoes and cereals to increase calories. Increase protein by adding extra cheese, eggs and beans to meals. Eat snacks with peanut butter, nuts or dried fruit. Speak to your medical doctor if you have lost a large amount of weight.
Weight Gain
Some patients gain weight during breast cancer treatment due to medications or the stress associated with the disease. But when you're fighting breast cancer it is not the right time to attempt to lose weight. Some of the weight gain may not be associated with your diet but is a side effect of certain medications. Your body may be holding on to excess water, resulting in weight gain and bloating. Speak to your doctor about taking a diuretic to reduce water retention.
Fluids
Keeping your body hydrated is critical when fighting any disease, including breast cancer. Keep your home stocked with a variety of sugar-free beverages. If you're feeling nauseous or vomiting, keep ice chips by your bedside. Popsicles made from frozen fruit juices are a healthy way to add fluids into your body. Try drinking chicken or vegetable broth. Women who become dehydrated may feel more nervous during treatment and are prone to nausea.
Healthy Diet
If you are not suffering from severe side effects associated with medication and treatment, continue to eat a healthy diet. Eat seven to nine servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Focus on a variety of colors and an assortment of vegetables to vary vitamins and minerals. Include grains such as brown rice, wheat bread and pasta in your daily diet; eat about six servings of grains a day. Choose lean meats, and eat no more than 6 oz. of meat a day. Try to eat fish about twice a week.
