Radiation, chemotherapy and other treatment methods can affect your nutritional and dietary habits when fighting cancer. Treatment can leave you with a variety of side effects that may cause difficulty in getting proper nutrition. Side effects vary depending on the type and strength of treatment; radiation and chemotherapy affect each person differently. Adjust to your prescribed cancer treatment by changing your diet and eating habits.
Protein and Calories
You may need extra protein and calories to prevent weight loss, malnutrition and fatigue associated with cancer treatment. Dairy foods often contain both. Add extra cheese to sandwiches, soups and salads. Fortify soups by adding heavy cream. Hot chocolate with a topping of whipped cream in the morning or a milk-based smoothie add calories to your daily menu. You can get high levels of protein in cottage cheese, peanut butter and eggs. You can also consume liquids supplements between meals for additional calories. Always eat a variety of snacks throughout the day. Applesauce, yogurt and chips with bean dip add calories and continue to be healthy dietary choices.
Favorite Foods
Eating your favorite foods during radiation and chemotherapy has both positive and negative implications. Cancer treatment may suppress your appetite, but you are more likely to snack on a supply of your favorite foods, which can help keep your nutritional intake in balance. Some people overeat their favorite foods during this time, however. According to BreastCancer.org, if you indulge too much in your favorite foods during treatment, you may later associate them with chemotherapy and radiation and no longer crave them. Sticking to a bland, basic diet may be best. Crackers, rice, pasta and toast are foods that will not upset your stomach.
Foods for Dry Mouth
A common side effect of chemotherapy drugs is a dry or sore mouth. If you have a severely dry mouth, chewing foods and swallowing can be difficult. While eating, take small sips of water, suggests Imaginis. Eat sweet foods or foods with lemon to produce more saliva and prevent dry mouth. Choose soups or foods with gravies to keep your mouth moist. Rinse out your mouth after eating and practice excellent dental hygiene to avoid complications. Prescription mouthwashes may be available from your doctor.
Considerations
Radiation therapy does not often affect your diet, but you may have to travel long distances to receive treatment. Bring plenty of liquids with you to avoid becoming dehydrated as you travel. Pack snacks and plan where you will eat if you will be away from home for several hours, suggests Breast Cancer Care.
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