Diet With The Folfox Regimen

Proper nutrition is crucial, especially if you are on a chemotherapy regimen such as FOLFOX -- commonly used to treat colon cancer. Because chemotherapy drugs can destroy both healthy and diseased cells, it's important that you eat a well-balanced diet. Diets recommended while on FOLFOX are designed to help you get the proper nutrition and reduce common side effects, including nausea and vomiting. Talk to your doctor about dietary recommendations specific to your situation.

Think Bland

FOLFOX, like other chemotherapy regimens, commonly causes nausea and vomiting that can last for several days after your treatment, according to the American Cancer Society. A bland diet can help reduce these side effects, according to Susan Holmes, author of "Nutrition and Chemotherapy." Choose foods that are soft and easy to digest, and avoid spicy or fried foods, says Holmes. Soups, pudding, eggs, oatmeal, low-fat dairy and tofu are examples of foods allowed on a bland diet.

Limit Fiber

Commonly known as a low-residue diet, physicians regularly recommend modifying your fiber intake while on the FOLFOX regimen, explains Holmes. FOLFOX can cause a change in bowel habits. FOLFOX triggers diarrhea in about 60 percent of people, according to Cancer Research UK. A low-fiber diet reduces the amount of undigested food moving through your bowels, and can help ease digestive problems caused by FOLFOX, says Holmes. Avoid high-residue foods, including beans, bran, nuts, processed meats and raw or steamed vegetables.

Frequency and Size

Many patients experience a loss of appetite after FOLFOX treatments. Nausea can increase your lack of appetite. Eating smaller meals more frequently is sometimes better tolerated, says Holmes. This helps reduce vomiting also. Instead of eating three large meals, try five or six small meals equally spaced out through the day. Your doctor can prescribe anti-sickness medication if you experience particularly troublesome symptoms.

Considerations

The specific diet recommended for you during your FOLFOX regimen varies based on your individual circumstance. It is important to discuss dietary recommendations with your doctor. Depending on your situation, your doctor might recommend reducing your intake of red meat, which is associated with the start and progression of bowel cancer. Other factors, such as health problems like diabetes or high blood pressure, will influence your dietary needs.