Navigating Healthy Eating During Cancer Treatment: Expert Advice

Cancer treatment places significant demands on the human body, and nourishment becomes even more critical. Unfortunately, treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can disrupt appetite and digestion, making it challenging to maintain a healthy diet.

“Eating well is especially important during cancer treatment,” says Emma Veilleux, RDN, a senior dietitian supervisor with the Simms/Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology. “It’s crucial to prepare by stocking your fridge and pantry ahead of time to ensure you have nutritious options available if your appetite changes.”

Preparing Your Kitchen Before Treatment Begins

One of the most effective strategies is to build a stockpile of nutritious foods before starting treatment. This includes keeping a variety of fruits and vegetables, yogurt, cottage cheese, edamame, nut butter, and other easy-to-eat options in your refrigerator and freezer.

“Frozen meals are also handy. They provide quick, healthful alternatives when your taste preferences shift or when you’re feeling too unwell to cook,” Veilleux advises. “Having these foods on hand means you can eat what appeals to you without worrying about making a shopping trip or ordering delivery.”

Moreover, don’t hesitate to reach for takeout or delivery when you feel like something specific that isn’t in your pantry. The key is to eat what you enjoy while you can.

Managing Nausea, Constipation, and Taste Changes

Nausea, constipation, and diarrhea are common side effects of cancer treatment. Patients may also experience taste aversions where familiar foods seem unappealing or unpleasant.

“The unpredictability of these effects makes eating a challenge,” Veilleux explains. “One day, you might enjoy a dish, and the next, it won’t taste right. It’s important to have a diverse selection of nutritious choices to accommodate these shifts.”

If you miss a meal or your appetite disappears entirely, consider protein shakes or meal replacement drinks as alternatives. These supplements can help you stay on track with your nutritional needs.

Staying Hydrated During Treatment

Staying hydrated is essential for overall health, but it becomes particularly crucial for patients experiencing diarrhea or vomiting. Loss of fluids can lead to dehydration, which may exacerbate symptoms and cause additional discomfort.

“Electrolyte supplements can be helpful if you’re losing a lot of fluid,” Veilleux suggests. “It’s important to talk to your doctor or dietitian to determine which products are best for your situation.”

Coffee can be consumed in moderation if it doesn’t upset your stomach, but it’s best to forgo alcohol altogether while undergoing cancer treatment. Alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of treatments and further deplete fluids from the body.

The Importance of Protein

Protein demands increase during cancer treatment, making it vital to consume adequate amounts of this essential nutrient. Your individual protein requirement can vary depending on factors like cancer type, treatment regimen, and overall health.

“It’s important to focus on protein, but it’s also essential to be flexible with your eating habits,” Veilleux emphasizes. “Even if you only feel like eating less nutritious foods on some days, it’s better to eat something than nothing.”

Bland, lightly salted foods such as saltine crackers or white rice may be more palatable during times of nausea or vomiting. Remember, eating food that feels bearable is better than not eating at all.

Embracing Flexibility and Seeking Support

Finally, it’s crucial to accept that cancer treatment can disrupt your normal routines and eating habits. Flexibility and adaptability are key to navigating these challenges.

“Changes in appetite and taste are normal, but they can be uncomfortable,” Veilleux says. “Communicating with your care team about any side effects you experience is essential. Medications exist to alleviate many symptoms and make treatment more tolerable.”

Supportive family and friends are also invaluable during this time. Understanding and patience can make a significant difference in helping you maintain a healthy diet despite the uncertainties of cancer treatment.

“Flexibility is the key to supporting yourself throughout treatment,” Veilleux concludes. “It’s not about being perfect; it’s about doing your best to care for yourself despite the challenges.”

If you or someone you know is undergoing cancer treatment, remember that proper nutrition plays a critical role in recovery. By preparing in advance and staying flexible, you can navigate the challenges of treatment while maintaining your health and well-being.