Science has come a long way through the years, providing doctors the ability to treat cancer more effectively. These treatments, namely chemotherapy and radiation, can increase survival rates but at a price --- unpleasant side effects. Eating a diet in accordance with the side effects you experience can help reduce their severity.
Significance
Good nutrition for cancer patients undergoing treatments is vital. It is about eating the right kinds of food before, during and after your treatment to increase your energy and help you feel better. The National Cancer Institute states that when you receive the proper nutrients, you increase your chances of fighting infection, staying strong and keeping your tissues healthy. You may even increase your odds of recovering and enjoying a better quality of life.
Common Treatment Side Effects
No single, ideal cancer therapy diet exists for every patient. The ideal diet hinges on the particular side effects you experience. The foods you require for nausea differ from the ones needed for diarrhea. The most common side effects include, but are not limited to, loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea and constipation.
Diet for Nausea
Nausea is a side effect of both chemotherapy and radiation, although it can be from the cancer itself. To prevent malnutrition, eat small meals through the day. Having some food in your stomach may help you feel better. Eat meals slowly, sticking with bland, low-fat items. Sip cool, clear liquids all day to prevent dehydration and keep saltine crackers at your side to settle your stomach when necessary. Stay in an upright position for two hours after eating; this can be in your bed. The University of California San Francisco Medical Center, UCSF, recommends cream of wheat cereal, cold sandwiches, plain pasta, mashed potatoes, canned fruit, gelatin, popsicles, apple or cranberry juice and ginger or peppermint tea.
Diet for Constipation
Increasing your fiber consumption can help with constipation. Good sources include whole-grain bread, raw fruits and veggies, prune juice with hot lemon water, cooked peas and lentils and dried fruit. Add some fiber to each meal; have oatmeal for breakfast, add lentils to a salad and fruit after dinner. Drink eight to 10 8-oz. glasses of liquids each day and reduce caffeine intake, since this can bring constipation.
Diet for Diarrhea
Diarrhea increases your risk of dehydration; therefore, you need to increase your consumption of room-temperature liquids such as water, tea or fruit juices, explains UCSF Medical Center. The BRAT diet -- bananas, rice, applesauce, tea and toast -- helps return stools to normal consistency. Reduce intake of high-fiber foods along with milk, pudding and ice cream; these can cause stomach upset. Plain rice and corn cereals are good options as are white rice and pasta. Clear broth soup, graham crackers, eggs and soda may also be helpful. Eggs are acceptable and are a source of protein.
Diet for Loss of Appetite
Loss of appetite can be difficult to treat. It can be a culmination of all side effects along with the depression often accompanying cancer. To ensure you receive the nutrients your body requires, set an eating schedule according to time rather than your hunger level. Eat every three hours -- three meals and three snacks. Eat high-calorie snacks such as avocados, nuts, puddings and protein shakes. These ensure weight maintenance. Plan and prepare meals ahead of time, freezing them for nights you don't have the energy to cook. If you need help, ask a friend or family member. Make the food look and smell good; the more enticing it is, the more likely you are to eat.
