According to the American Cancer Society, eating a healthy diet can help individuals living with cancer to feel better and retain their strength. Cancer and some of the treatments for the disease can cause a decrease in appetite, so the foods you eat should be nutrient-dense. Cancer patients may also experience changes in taste, causing them to avoid foods they might otherwise find healthy and appealing. Selecting a wide variety of healthy foods may help you maximize the amount of nutrients you consume.
Step 1
Consume foods that are not only nutrient-dense, but also calorically dense. According to the ACS, your body needs calories for all its processes. Cancer patients, particularly those who are receiving treatment, may require additional calories to help fight off infection and replenish lost cells and tissues. Choose foods such as raw nuts and seeds, dried fruits and full-fat dairy products. These foods are calorically dense and contain ample amounts of nutritious calories per serving.
Step 2
Eat foods high in protein, such as nuts, nut butters, cheese and full-fat dairy products. According to Jane Harrison, RD, of MyOptumHealth.com, eating extra protein may help improve the effectiveness of cancer treatments. Protein provides the building blocks for repairing tissues in your body. Additionally, the ACS recommends indulging in high-calorie, high-protein smoothies and milk shakes or canned nutritional supplements. Carry canned liquid nutritional supplements with you so you have an easy source of protein and calories when away from home.
Step 3
Include foods with fiber, such as fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grain products. Fiber is essential for digestion and excretion of waste products and can relieve the constipation caused by some cancer treatments. Don't overdo fiber, however, as it can make you feel full and unable to eat adequate calories. To help prevent this, eat foods that contain fiber after eating other foods, so that you get the nutritional benefits of both.
Step 4
Drink lots of fluids throughout the day. The National Cancer Institute explains that most adults should drink between eight and 12 glasses of liquid a day. This is especially important on those days when you don't have a good appetite. Some cancer treatments, the NCI adds, may cause vomiting and diarrhea, which can both lead to dehydration. Don't include caffeinated beverages in your daily fluid intake. Caffeine acts as a mild diuretic that draws water out of the body.
Step 5
Eat more frequently and consume your largest meal when you feel hungry. You may not always feel like eating a full meal, so it may be easier for you to divide your meals and eat more often. This can help your body digest the food you are able to eat and allow time for your stomach to empty so you feel hungry for your next meal. Keep snacks handy and, if you feel the urge to eat something, choose a liquid nutritional supplement, granola bar or handful of nuts. Eating more frequently may also help you maintain your energy levels so you can enjoy your everyday activities.
Tips and Warnings
- Speak with your doctor before making significant dietary changes. Keep your home stocked with healthy foods so that they are available when you need them.
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