During chemotherapy treatment for cancer, you may find that your ability and desire to eat may decrease. Good nutrition is important for people undergoing chemotherapy because vitamins, minerals, calories and protein are necessary for the body to heal after treatment. Your physician or dietitian may suggest different types of diets if you are having problems eating; these specialized diets allow you to obtain the necessary nutrition while taking into account any physical issues.
Clear Liquids
Chemotherapy can lead to nausea and vomiting. For many people, making small changes in dietary habits allow them to continue to consume enough calories and nutrients during this time. In some cases, the nausea and vomiting may be severe; your dietitian may suggest a clear liquid diet. Foods that may be included in a clear liquid diet are fruit juice, popsicles, broth, and gelatin, according to ChemoCare.com. This diet allows your gastrointestinal tract to to rest while still providing some nutrition, as noted by the National Cancer Institute. A clear liquid diet is not intended for long-term use; your physician may make some additional changes if you can only tolerate clear liquids after a few days.
Full Liquids
Full liquid diets can be the transition step between a clear liquid diet and regular food. Your physician may also recommend a full liquid diet if you had a difficult time chewing or swallowing foods because of a physical problem, or because you have mouth sores, as noted by the National Cancer Institute. A full liquid diet contains yogurt, milk, ice cream, milkshakes, cream soups, pudding and hot cereal, according to ChemoCare.com. If you manage this type of diet properly, you can remain on it for an indefinite amount of time. You can also increase you protein and calorie intake by adding nonfat dry milk powder or instant breakfast to beverages or shakes or adding butter or sugar to soups or broths.
Soft Diet
A soft diet can be another transition diet between liquids and solids; it can be beneficial to people who also have trouble chewing and swallowing, according to Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. In this diet, any foods that are difficult to chew or swallow, like raw fruits and vegetables and tough meats, are eliminated. For some people, gas-producing vegetables and whole grains may be restricted to protect the GI tract. Foods in the soft diet are softened by pureeing, mashing or placing in a food processor, notes the National Cancer Institute.
Low Lactose Diets
Cancer treatments can cause lactose intolerance -- even in a person who was not intolerant before treatment. If you develop gas, bloating and cramping after consuming dairy products, your physician may place you on a low lactose diet, according to ChemoCare.com. You would have to eliminate most products that contain milk. Products that contain fermented milk like yogurt or buttermilk tend to be better tolerated in patients who are lactose intolerant, according to the National Cancer Institute. Low lactose milk is also an option.
Fiber-Restricted Diet
Your physician may place you on a fiber-restricted or low-residue diet if you are at high risk for developing a bowel obstruction or if your gastrointestinal tract becomes irritated due to therapy, according to the National Cancer Institute. Fiber-restricted diets limit the amount of fruits, vegetables, grains, cereals, and dairy products that you can eat. A low-residue diet is more restricted -- you can only eat vegetables like tomatoes or potatoes and there are limits on grain and dairy products. Both of these diets need to be managed by a physician or registered dietitian.
Neutropenic Diet
Your immune system can be affected while you are undergoing chemotherapy. You physician may prescribe a neutropenic diet which may protect you from bacteria that is present in certain foods and beverages, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Fresh fruits and vegetables can be a problem, as are raw or undercooked meats, fish or eggs. Raw nuts and salad bars should be avoided as well. In a neutropenic diet, you also have to consume only pasteurized dairy products. You should also check your bottled water to make sure that it has been filtered. Well water can only be used if you boil it prior to use.
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