While radiation therapy is an important facet in the treatment of some cancers, it can have a negative impact on the body. This is especially true for radiation to the head, neck, chest, abdomen and pelvis. Treatment can cause dry mouth, sore throat, difficulty swallowing and changes in taste or smell. You may also suffer from nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramping. Any one of these side effects can affect your appetite, resulting in weight loss. Since the body uses more energy than normal to heal itself during treatment, your doctor may recommend nutritional changes to better support treatment and recovery.
Calories
Your caloric intake is often one of the most essential components to nutrition during radiation therapy. The more energy the body needs to heal itself, the more calories you must take in to facilitate this process. You'll likely increase your caloric intake throughout treatment. The number of calories varies from person to person, so your doctor or dietitian can work with you to determine this amount.
Protein
Besides increasing your caloric intake, you will likely have to consume foods high in protein. Like calories, the added protein helps provide additional energy to facilitate healing. It's also crucial in repairing damaged cells. Adding cheese, whole-fat milk, dried milk and other dairy product to foods can increase your intake of protein. You may also want to eat more lean meats, legumes, eggs, nuts, tofu, peanut butter and wheat germ.
Fiber
Along with your increased intake of calories and protein, you may need to limit your intake of fiber. Normally, you should get at least 25 grams of fiber each day. However, this could be too much for you, especially if radiation is causing diarrhea. Eating foods high in fiber can worsen this side effect. Instead of raw fruits and vegetables, focus on cooked or canned varieties as well as their juices. Whole grains are also restricted.
Mild Foods
During radiation therapy, it isn't uncommon to experience periodic episodes of nausea or vomiting. To ensure you're getting enough calories, your doctor may recommend eating foods that are easy on the stomach to help minimize these side effects. Such foods might include broths and soups as well as refined grains, pastas, eggs, poultry, lean beef, crackers, cereals, avocados and bananas. Frozen yogurt, sherbet, sorbet, pudding, gelatin and ice cream are also easy on the stomach.
Nutrients
Another important facet to nutrition during radiation therapy is nutrients. With the dietary changes, you still need to eat a balanced diet. A dietitian or nutritionist will work with you to establish a nutritious eating plan based on your health, type of cancer and side effects associated with treatment. The need for vitamins, minerals and other nutrients during radiation doesn't mean you should start taking a dietary supplement without the advisement of a medical professional, however. Certain supplements, particularly those containing high doses of antioxidants, can interfere with the effectiveness of radiation therapy.
References
- The Journal of the American Medical Association: Radiation Therapy
- National Cancer Institute: Effects of Cancer Treatment on Nutrition
- National Cancer Institute: Questions and Answers About Radiation Therapy
- American Society for Radiation Oncology: How Should I Care for Myself During Radiation Therapy?
- American Cancer Society: Nutrition During and After Cancer Treatment -- A Guide for Informed Choices by Cancer Survivors
