Anal cancer affects the final segment of your gastrointestinal tract, which joins the rectum to the anus -- the opening that controls the passage of digestive wastes from your body. Cancer may occur in the tissues of the anal canal or in the anal opening itself, the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC says. Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining your strength and body weight while you're recovering from this disease. Eating nutritious foods during and after cancer treatment may improve the outcome of chemotherapy, radiation or surgery and help you make a healthy recovery.
Contributing Factors
Anal cancer is relatively uncommon, according to the UMMC. It represents 1 percent to 2 percent of the total number of gastrointestinal cancers diagnosed in the United States. Having a history of smoking, a weakened immune system or an infection with the human papilloma virus, or HPV, in your anal area may increase your risk of anal cancer. As with other forms of cancer that affect the gastrointestinal tract, a diet high in fats, sugar, meat and processed foods and low in fiber may promote anal cancer.
Nutritional Priorities
A diet high in lean protein, monounsaturated and omega-3 fats, whole grains and fresh produce can help you maintain your strength and energy levels when you have anal cancer, according to the Abramson Cancer Center at the University of Pennsylvania. The metabolic demands of anal cancer and the side effects of treatment may cause unwanted weight loss and muscle wasting. To prevent lean tissue loss, emphasize sources of lean protein in your diet, such as chicken, fish, low-fat milk and cheese and legumes. Replace the saturated or trans fats in butter, margarine, salad dressings or full-fat dairy products with the unsaturated fats in olive or canola oil, nuts, seeds, avocados and fish. Whenever possible, eat whole-grain breads, cereals or pasta instead of grain products made with refined flour or sugar. Drink plenty of decaffeinated fluids to stay hydrated. If you're able to digest high-fiber foods without having diarrhea, aim for at least five servings of vegetables and fruits each day.
Cancer Treatment
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are the most common treatments for anal cancer, according to the UMMC. Your doctor may recommend surgery to remove early-stage or late-stage anal cancers. During treatment, you may have diarrhea, nausea or a loss of appetite due to chemotherapy medications or side effects of radiation. While you're undergoing treatment, finding digestible foods that appeal to you becomes a priority. The Abramson Cancer Center recommends that you avoid a high-fiber diet during cancer treatment, especially if you're experiencing diarrhea. Instead of eating high-fiber foods such as raw vegetables and fruits, beans, nuts and seeds, eat bland, starchy foods that bind diarrhea and reduce loose stools. White bread and rice, mashed potatoes, bananas, yogurt, cookies and crackers may help reduce diarrhea. Clear soups, electrolyte replacement drinks and juices without pulp can keep you hydrated when you're having diarrhea or vomiting. Because antioxidant vitamin supplements and herbal preparations may interfere with cancer treatment, the Abramson center advises that you avoid these supplements while you're undergoing chemotherapy or radiation.
After Treatment
Your chances of preventing a recurrence of anal cancer may increase if you follow a balanced diet that emphasizes fresh, whole foods and limits processed meats, saturated fats, refined flour and sugar. The American Cancer Society recommends eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day to maintain a healthy digestive tract and benefit from the vitamins, minerals and cancer-fighting antioxidant compounds in these foods. The ACS also recommends you limit alcohol and get as much regular physical exercise as possible to maintain your overall health after your recovery from anal cancer.
References
- American Cancer Society: Anal Cancer: Lifestyle Changes to Consider during and after Treatment
- University of Pennsylvania: Abramson Cancer Center: Colon, Rectal and Anal Cancer Frequently Asked Questions
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Anal Cancer Overview -- Greenebaum Cancer Center
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Colorectal Cancer
- National Cancer Institute: Eating Hints
