Leukemia -- a cancer of the blood -- is commonly treated with chemotherapy. One of the side effects of chemotherapy is mouth sores. Mouth sores normally occur on your lips, gums, tongue, the roof of your mouth and can also be found in your esophagus. Mouth sores can be painful, uncomfortable and making eating difficult. As a result, you may have to follow a special diet.
Mouth Sore Prevention
To help prevent mouth sores while undergoing chemotherapy treatment for leukemia, eat a well-balanced diet. Well-balanced diets includes lean meats, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can help your body get an adequate supply of vitamins, minerals and nutrients. This can help your body fight infections and heal wounds while you are undergoing chemotherapy. However, keep in mind that eating healthy cannot guarantee the prevention of mouth sores.
Eat More Often
Instead of eating 2 to 3 large meals per day, consider eating 5 or 6 small meals each day. Eating more frequently can help cut down on pain that may occur as the result of trying to eat a large meal. Cut your food into very small pieces and eat slowly. When consuming liquids, use a straw. A straw can help to prevent irritation of already-existing mouth sores.
Foods to Avoid
Watch your diet if you experience mouth sores during treatment for leukemia. Stay away from foods that can irritate your mouth. Avoid acidic and spicy foods such as oranges and peppers. These foods can further irritate your mouth sores. You should also avoid foods that can be crunchy and sharp including chips, pretzels and crackers. Sharp foods can make your mouth sores worth. Additionally, caffeine and alcohol can further irritate existing mouth sores and as such, you should avoid them.
Liquid Diet
If your mouth sores irritate your lips, mouth, gums, roof of your mouth and esophagus to the point where you are becoming nauseous, vomiting or losing weight, your doctor may place you on a liquid diet. A liquid diet consists of any food or drink that is liquid at room temperature. Examples of foods appropriate on a liquid diet include water, coffee, tea, ice cream, protein shakes, pudding, broth, yogurt, strained meat, non-carbonated beverages and fruit juices.
Soft Food Diet
Your doctor may also opt to place you on a soft food diet. A soft food diet consists of foods that are easy on the mouth, throat and esophagus. This type of diet is beneficial for individuals experiencing soreness as the result of cancer treatment -- including chemotherapy and radiation. Soft foods can be blended, mashed or pureed. Soft foods include peanut butter, mashed potatoes, tender meat, bread and scrambled eggs.
