Cancer and cancer treatments put a lot of strain on your body and can leave you feeling wiped out and weak. When you are undergoing chemotherapy, it is important to get enough calories, vitamins and minerals so your body can recover, which may require you to change your diet.
Chemotherapy Effects
Although you most likely will need to eat more while receiving chemotherapy, many patients find themselves instead eating less. Chemotherapy can generate a variety of obstacles to getting all the food you need. For example, you can develop mouth ulcers and inflammation of the mouth. Other common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and a loss of appetite. Patients may also notice that some foods taste different than they did before the treatment.
Nutritional Needs
If you are receiving chemotherapy, you will probably need to follow a high-calorie diet to prevent weight loss. Foods that are high in protein will also help prevent muscle wasting. Consequently you should emphasize foods that are high in protein and calories, such as peanut butter, meats, cheeses, milkshakes and whole milk. Some patients on chemotherapy develop an aversion to the taste of fat; if this happens, you should eat foods such as cottage cheese, lean meats and yogurt. Fruits and vegetables are also important; consume fruit juice and dried fruit to add calories and vitamins to your diet, and focus on calorie-dense vegetables, such as corn and peas.
Tips To Increase Food Intake
Because you may have a reduced appetite while receiving chemotherapy, you cannot rely on eating only when you are hungry to get enough food. MayoClinic.com recommends eating multiple small meals each day and having set mealtimes to help you eat enough to avoid weight loss. Eating a variety of foods with different tastes and textures can also stimulate your appetite.
Supplements
If you are having trouble getting enough calories and protein, nutritional supplements may be recommended. These supplements are liquid shakes, which come either premixed or in powder form. Some patients have an easier time drinking liquids rather than eating, and these products are designed to provide extra calories and protein. You may also need to take vitamin supplements, such as a daily multivitamin to prevent vitamin deficiencies.
