In 2010, around 21,000 people were diagnosed with stomach cancer and another 10,570 died from the disease, according to the American Cancer Society. Recovery from the disease requires an adequate intake of protein, calories, minerals and vitamins. However, you may experience vomiting, nausea and loss of appetite during your treatment. No single diet is appropriate for every stomach cancer patient, making it vital that you consult a physician or registered dietitian ensure you meet your individual needs.
Meal Frequency
Stomach cancer and treatment may cause you to experience anorexia, changes in your test or smell, nausea, diarrhea, gas, vomiting and early satiety. These factors may result in poor nutrient consumption and malnutrition. To combat these problems, the American Cancer Society recommends eating small meals every few hours throughout the day. Do not rely on hunger cues to determine the best time to eat; instead, schedule 5 or 6 meals into your day that contain a small portion of protein, carbohydrate and fat.
Protein
Protein sources help combat muscle wasting and weight loss. Good protein sources include cheeses, dairy, soy, protein powder, meats, fish, beans, nuts and seeds. If you have appetite loss, sore throat, trouble swallowing, weight loss, or need additional protein or calories, try sprinkling powdered milk or instant breakfast powder in your ice cream, casseroles, cream soups or desserts. You can also add grated cheese to salads, soups, rice, pasta or meatloaf. Sprinkle wheat germ into your cereal, muffins, salad or bread, or add nut butter to toast, crackers, fruit slices or pancakes.
Foods for Trouble Eating
Certain foods can help you continue eating despite dry mouth, sore throat, mouth sores or difficulty swallowing that may occur with stomach cancer or treatment. Eat soft foods, such as baby food, casseroles, cooked cereals, chicken salad, tuna salad, eggs, mashed potatoes, soups, cottage cheese or pureed foods, as your main meals. Snacks can include gelatin, ice cream, sherbet, smoothies, canned fruits, sorbet, puddings or yogurt. If you still find yourself losing weight because you don't want to eat, consider consuming liquid meal replacements or instant breakfast drinks throughout the day.
Fiber
Control your intake of fiber to help control constipation, diarrhea or excessive weight gain associated with stomach cancer treatment. Decrease your fiber intake by consuming foods low in fiber during times of diarrhea, and increase your fiber intake by consuming high-fiber foods during times of constipation or excessive weight gain. Low-fiber foods that can help you recover include poultry, instant oatmeal, noodles, fish, carrots, canned fruits, mushrooms, vegetable juice, white bread, custard and sherbet. High-fiber foods include foods with a whole grain listed as the first ingredient, granola, most fruits and vegetables, popcorn, seeds and trail mix.
References
- American Cancer Society; What Are the Key Statistics About Stomach Cancer?; December 2010
- "A Cancer Journal for Clinicians"; Nutrition and Physical Activity During and After Cancer Treatment: An American Cancer Society Guide for Informed Choices; Colleen Doyle, MS, RD, et al.; September/October 2006
- National Cancer Institute; Eating Hints: Before, During, and After Cancer Treatment; September 2009
- Karen Collins, MS, RD, CDN; Dietitian and Nutritionist in Private Practice; Jamestown, New York
