Ovarian cancer starts when cancerous cells develop in the ovaries. It often goes undetected until it has spread to the abdomen and pelvis, according to MayoClinic.com, which makes it more difficult to treat. Treatment typically involves surgery, then chemotherapy. A healthy diet may improve your ability to heal properly, guard against infections and promote your energy levels and overall quality of life. For best results, seek specified guidance from your doctor or dietitian.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables supply rich amounts of antioxidants, such as beta-carotene and vitamin C, which support your body's ability to resist and heal from infections and disease. Particularly antioxidant-rich varieties include citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, tomatoes, leafy greens, broccoli, bell peppers and squash. If your appetite is reduced due to cancer or its treatment, the National Cancer Institute, NCI, recommends drinking clear fruit juices, such as cranberry, apple or grape juice, which supply energy and can help guard against insufficient calorie intake and undesirable weight loss.
Starches
Starches, such as breads, cereals and potatoes, provide glucose -- your body's main dietary energy source. If you're experiencing diarrhea, the NCI recommends low-fiber starches, such as skinless cooked potatoes, white bread, white rice and noodles. If constipation arises, choose fiber-rich starches, such as whole-grain breads, oatmeal, brown rice, pearled barley and popcorn. Fiber helps foods move through your digestive system and softens stool. Because whole grains contain all nutritious parts of the grain, they also provide more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants than refined grains.
Protein-Rich Foods
Eating enough protein to rebuild and repair your skin, hair, organs and muscles is vital during the course of chemotherapy, according to the American Cancer Society, ACS. Protein-rich foods also promote strong immune system function. Valuable sources of protein include lean meats, fish, dairy products, beans, lentils and tofu. If your appetite is low, sip protein-rich shakes or smoothies. For added protein, nutrients and calories, prepare hot cereals with milk instead of water and add dry milk powder to soups and mashed potatoes. If you are constipated, eat fiber-rich protein sources, such as beans, lentils and split pea. When faced with diarrhea, stick to low-fiber protein sources, such as beef, chicken, milk and cheese.
Healthy Fats
A well-balanced diet, which includes healthy fats, is important for managing fatigue, according to the ACS. Fats help your body absorb fat-soluble nutrients, such as the antioxidant vitamin E, and promote positive brain function and healthy skin. Because fat contains more calories-per-gram than other nutrients, foods rich in healthy fat, such as nuts, seeds, nut butters, avocados, oily fish and vegetable oils, can help ensure that your calorie needs are met if your appetite is reduced. To add calories and nutrients to lighter foods, top vegetables with olive oil . Top breads and crackers with peanut butter or sliced avocado.
