Pancreatic cancers are usually aggressive and harbor a host of digestive side effects. Aside from insulin, the pancreas is responsible for producing gastric juices and enzymes that aid in digestion and absorption of nutrients. Pancreatic cancers most commonly attack the very cells responsible for producing these enzymes. Pain, fatigue, bowel obstruction and diarrhea must all be considered when trying to promote nutrition in a patient with pancreatic cancer.
Step 1
Offer multiple small snacks throughout the day as opposed to three large meals. The person suffering pancreatic cancer might feel full quickly, so eating less food more often is key to maintaining weight. Make sure these snack-size meals are calorie- and protein-dense; offer foods with the most nutritional impact. Some choices might include eggs, meat, cheese, peanut butter and dairy products. Add cheese to vegetables, salads, eggs and meat dishes to boost calories.
Step 2
Plan snacks and fluids around mealtimes. Do not offer fluids with meals other than a few sips of water for swallowing assistance. The extra fluids can fill up the stomach and cause an early feeling of fullness. In between meals, offer calorie-rich snacks such as chocolate milk mixed with some instant breakfast powder, milkshakes or custard. Add dry, powdered milk to shakes and desserts to boost the calorie count.
Step 3
Avoid appetite pitfalls by waiting until the patient is comfortable to present food. Nausea and pain are sure to erase any hints of an appetite. Administer pain medications as ordered prior to meals so that the patient is comfortable when he is ready to eat. Do not force the person to eat or chastise him for eating just a little -- relaxed mealtimes will meet with more nutritional success than stressful ones.
Step 4
Avoid pungent or odorous foods. Fatty or fried foods, or dishes laced with garlic and onions might trigger a bout of nausea in the patient with pancreatic cancer. If nausea is a problem, try offering foods that are easily digested, such as broths, gelatin and sports drinks. Mention persistent nausea to the attending physician, as medications are available to help this.
Step 5
Take pancreatic enzymes as ordered. The lack of digestive enzymes from pancreatic cancer can lead to malnourishment, gas and diarrhea, with subsequent dehydration and weight loss. Take these supplements prior to mealtimes to promote nutrition and comfortable digestion.
