Eating a healthy diet is important for a cancer victim, as the disease and treatments can weaken the body. A proper diet can help the patient fight the cancer and keep up strength by providing the nutrients the body needs to function properly. However, because of some effects of cancer and the treatments for it, getting all the nutrients needed on a daily basis is sometimes difficult.
Components
By eating a moderate to high-protein diet that also includes fruits, vegetables, dairy products and whole grains, a cancer patient is getting the vitamins and minerals needed to ensure the body can function properly to fight the cancer. Protein helps repair cells and build new cells and helps to keep the immune system functioning properly. Healthy oils and fats as well as carbohydrates help to provide the body with energy to heal and fight the cancer. Water helps to minimize the chance of dehydration caused by vomiting and diarrhea common during some cancer treatments.
Obstacles
Cancer and the treatments for cancer, such as chemotherapy and radiation, can cause problems that make eating and drinking difficult. Sores in the mouth and throat, dry mouth and loss of appetite can make eating a meal difficult. Problems with teeth and gums, as well as changes in the way foods smell and taste can also pose a challenge. Constipation, nausea and vomiting after eating or drinking can lead to food and beverage aversions. Fatigue and depression can also lead to a cancer patient not wanting to eat.
Alternatives
When a cancer patient is unable or unwilling to eat or drink by mouth, other forms of nutrition are often offered. Total parenteral nutrition, which is given through an IV in the vein, is one option for patients when the digestive system isn't functioning properly. Tube feeding through a tube placed in the nose or one placed surgically through the belly is another option. In some cases, a patient may have more than one of these options. For example, a patient with a feeding tube may still be able to eat food by mouth.
Neutropenic Diet
The treatments for cancer may lead to a condition called neutropenia, which occurs when the white blood cell count isn't sufficient for fighting infection. When this condition occurs, the patient is usually placed on a restricted diet called a neutropenic diet that is aimed at reducing the patient's risk of developing food-borne illness or getting sick due to bacteria in food. Fresh fruits and vegetables, unpasteurized milk and juice, undercooked meat, raw nuts and certain cheeses like soft cheese aren't allowed on the neutropenic diet.
