Nutrition is an important part of taking care of yourself when you have ovarian cancer. The National Cancer Institute states that eating nutritious foods can improve your energy levels, help your body heal faster from surgeries and cancer treatments, reduce the risk of infections, and prevent excessive weight loss during your cancer treatments. You will need enough calories, protein, vitamins and minerals to keep your body strong.
Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is composed of a variety of foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grain breads and cereals, lean protein foods such as chicken and fish, and low-fat dairy products such as skim milk and low-fat yogurt and cottage cheese. Eating a wide variety of foods will ensure that your body is getting the calories, protein, vitamins and minerals that it needs. Eating well when you have cancer, however, can sometimes be difficult, according to the National Cancer Institute. If you are experiencing side-effects from your cancer treatments, modifying the types of foods you are choosing can help you manage your side-effects while still getting the nutrition you need.
Nausea, Vomiting, and Diarrhea
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are some of the side-effects commonly associated with lower abdominal radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The American Cancer Society recommends eating small amounts of easily digested foods throughout the day to help manage nausea and vomiting. Try eating crackers, bananas, toast, yogurt and rice. Foods that are cool in temperature are often well-tolerated, and as your symptoms subside, you can start adding more foods back into your diet. For diarrhea, the American Cancer Society recommends a low-fiber diet. Limit raw fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains that are very high in fiber. Also avoid foods that are greasy, spicy or overly sweet, which can make diarrhea worse.
Fatigue and Poor Appetite
People with ovarian cancer may also experience fatigue and a poor appetite as a side effect of cancer treatments, according to the American Cancer Society. Eating a large meal can be difficult when you are tired, so try eating six to eight small meals and snacks throughout the day. Eating frequently throughout the day can also help stimulate your appetite. You may find that it is easier to drink than it is to eat, so try drinking foods that are high in calories and protein, such as canned nutrition milkshakes.
Preventive Nutrition
According to the National Cancer Institute, the following nutrition tips may help decrease the chances of your cancer returning. Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants, which may help prevent cancer. Decrease the amount of fat in your diet to less than 30 percent of your total calories. Limit the amount of cured, pickled and smoked foods in your diet. Maintain a healthy weight, and if you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. A registered dietitian can teach you how to follow these guidelines and build a nutrition plan that is specialized for you.
References
- National Cancer Institute: What You Need to Know About Ovarian Cancer
- American Cancer Society: Ovarian Cancer
- Johns Hopkins Pathology: Promoting Good Nutritional Habits for Ovarian Cancer Patients and Survivors; Ginger Muscalli
- National Cancer Institute: Eating Hints: Before, During, and After Cancer Treatments
- National Cancer Institute: Nutrition in Cancer Care
