Dante Carrillo
Chemotherapy can have a huge impact on a person's health, including their appetite and diet. The treatment can cause a variety of side effects, such as constipation, fatigue, dry mouth, taste changes, nausea, and loss of appetite. As a result, people often have to change their diet to cope with these side effects. Eating a nutritious, balanced diet while on chemotherapy can help support treatment and overall health. It is recommended that people undergoing chemotherapy increase their protein and calorie intake by consuming extra calories and protein-rich foods like eggs, fish, and beans.
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What You'll Learn
Nausea and appetite loss
If you are experiencing nausea, your doctor may prescribe anti-nausea (antiemetic) medication. It is important to take this medication as directed by your medical team. If the prescribed medication is not working for you, inform your medical team so that they can suggest an alternative.
There are also some things you can do to help manage nausea and appetite loss. Firstly, it is important to stay hydrated. Sip water or other fluids throughout the day to prevent dehydration. If water tastes unpleasant, try adding ginger cordial or syrup. Sucking on ice cubes or ice lollies can also help to increase your fluid intake. If you are unable to keep fluids down, contact your doctor or hospital immediately.
If you are experiencing appetite loss, try eating bland foods that are easier to keep down. Eat small portions slowly and frequently throughout the day. It is important to eat even if you are not feeling hungry. If you do not feel like eating solid foods, drink milkshakes, smoothies, juice, or soup to help provide the protein, vitamins, and calories your body needs. If you wake up feeling sick, eat something small, such as crackers or toast, rather than skipping a meal.
You can also try taking nutritional supplements or vitamins, but always consult your doctor before doing so, as some products could affect how chemotherapy works.
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Balanced diet
A balanced diet is essential for managing health, especially during cancer treatment and recovery. A well-rounded diet should consist of nutrient-dense, whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, protein sources, and healthy fats.
Before, During, and After Chemotherapy
Before, during, and after chemotherapy, it is crucial to maintain a balanced diet and adequate protein and calorie intake. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables can help increase antioxidant consumption, which is essential as people undergoing chemotherapy are more likely to be deficient in nutrients such as magnesium, iron, vitamin D, and folate.
Managing Side Effects
Chemotherapy can cause various side effects, such as a weakened immune system, constipation, fatigue, and reduced appetite. A balanced diet can help manage these side effects and reduce their intensity. For example, eating high-fibre foods can help with constipation, and consuming healthy fats can provide energy and help maintain weight.
Food Choices
Soft, nutritious, and easy-to-eat foods are recommended during chemotherapy. Light, bland foods are often better tolerated, and small, frequent meals can help ensure adequate nutrition. Homemade smoothies are an excellent option for those struggling to chew solid food, as they can provide essential nutrients in a customizable, easy-to-consume form.
Nutrition Support
Nutrition is a critical aspect of cancer treatment and recovery, and oncology-certified registered dietitians can provide valuable support. They can help individuals make informed choices about nutrition, answer questions, and achieve and maintain good health.
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Food safety
Chemotherapy can affect your body's ability to fight off infections, which may result in a weakened immune system. This means it's crucial to be extra cautious with food safety to prevent food poisoning. Here are some detailed guidelines to ensure food safety during chemotherapy:
Storage and Preparation:
- Always wash your hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds before and after preparing meals, as well as before eating.
- Keep your kitchen surfaces clean before preparing food.
- Use separate chopping boards for raw and ready-to-eat foods.
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption, using clean water. Avoid soaps, detergents, or commercial produce rinses. For produce with thick skins, consider using a clean vegetable scrubber.
- Store perishable foods in the refrigerator within two hours of buying or preparing them.
- Keep your fridge between 0°C and 5°C, and your freezer below -18°C.
- Always defrost frozen foods in the fridge and cook them immediately after they've defrosted. Do not refreeze defrosted foods.
- Avoid eating mouldy, bruised, or damaged produce.
- Check "use by" dates on food labels and avoid foods with damaged packaging.
Cooking and Consumption:
- Cook your food thoroughly to reduce the risk of food poisoning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of at least 63°C for fish and 74°C for reheated meals.
- When using a microwave, rotate and stir the food halfway through cooking for even heating.
- Serve hot food immediately after cooking. Avoid reheating cooked food more than once.
- Avoid raw seafood, such as oysters, raw shellfish, and sushi made from raw fish. Instead, opt for cooked or frozen seafood.
- Avoid smoked fish unless it is thoroughly cooked to reduce the risk of listeria infection.
- Avoid supplements and foods containing probiotics, such as bio-yoghurts and drinks, as they contain live bacteria and should be used with caution during chemotherapy.
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to stay hydrated and help remove byproducts of chemotherapy.
Remember, it's always best to consult with a certified oncology dietitian or your medical team for personalized advice and guidance on nutrition during chemotherapy.
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Calories and protein
A balanced diet during chemotherapy can help maintain energy levels and fight nausea. It can also help to prevent infection and reduce the intensity of chemotherapy side effects. It is important to eat enough calories and protein to keep your strength up and maintain your quality of life.
During chemotherapy, it is recommended that you eat small portions slowly and frequently. You should also eat foods that are easy to chew and swallow, such as soft or blended foods. This might include yoghurt, plain toast, or broth.
To ensure you are getting enough calories and protein, you can add extra protein and calories to your meals, and drink your calories and protein in the form of smoothies, juices, or soups. You can also add protein powder to meals such as oatmeal or soup. It is recommended that you eat protein-rich foods at every meal and snack. Good sources of protein include eggs, fish, beans, lean meats, dairy, nuts, and seeds.
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Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins, minerals, essential fats, and amino acids are all important nutrients for our bodies. Eating a balanced diet with a variety of these nutrients gives us energy and helps our bodies grow and repair.
It is critical to get enough vitamins and minerals to maintain overall health. A well-rounded diet is the best way to ensure optimal vitamin and mineral intake. However, some people with cancer may need to supplement their diet with specific vitamins and minerals. For example, people undergoing chemotherapy are more likely to be deficient in several nutrients, such as magnesium, iron, vitamin D, and folate.
Some vitamins and minerals can be harmful and may even counteract chemotherapy. Antioxidant supplements, such as coenzyme Q10, selenium, and vitamins A, C, and E, can help prevent cell damage. However, there is evidence that taking high doses of these supplements during chemotherapy may reduce the treatment's effectiveness. A 2019 study found that postmenopausal women taking antioxidant supplements during chemotherapy and radiation therapy for breast cancer had a 64% higher risk of dying. Another 2019 study found that iron and vitamin B12 supplements taken during chemotherapy were associated with a higher rate of cancer recurrence and a negative effect on survival, respectively.
Some vitamins and supplements can help address nutritional deficiencies that might occur during chemotherapy treatment. For example, vitamin D is likely safe to take during treatment and can be prescribed by a doctor to protect the bones from the weakening effects of some cancer treatments. Multivitamins can also be a good source of nutrients for people who experience changes in appetite and diet due to chemotherapy.
It is important to consult with a doctor, specialist nurse, or dietitian before taking any supplements, as they may interfere with the effectiveness of chemotherapy or other medications.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to eat a nutritious, balanced diet with nutrient-dense, whole foods, including vegetables, fruits, protein sources, and healthy fats. Mild foods that are easy on the stomach, such as oatmeal and eggs, are good options. It is also important to drink fluids frequently to prevent dehydration.
After chemotherapy, it is important to continue eating a healthy, well-rounded diet with nutrient-dense, whole foods. It is also recommended to include foods high in healthy proteins, fats, and vitamins to help regain strength and energy.
To manage constipation, it is important to get the proper nutrients during chemotherapy, including high-fiber foods. To manage nausea, it is recommended to take anti-nausea medication as prescribed by your medical team and eat light, bland foods.
