Cancer treatment can be physically draining, affecting the appetite of cancer patients who experience various side effects of the cancer treatment. Symptoms like nausea, fatigue, and taste changes are commonly reported by cancer patients during the course of their treatment. Along with the appetite, their digestion and overall energy level alters. At this juncture, proper nutrition becomes utmost important for supporting the needs of the body. Eating the right foods can help preserve strength, enhance energy, aid the immune system, and facilitate the body’s ability to heal and recover.
Eating problems associated with cancer
Not all cancer patients experience eating problems. While some experience a few symptoms, others do not have any problems. The symptoms, if any, appear in some patients, depending on the type of treatment, dosage, and associated health problems. Some of the common symptoms that can affect your eating habits include appetite loss, change in bowel habits, lactose intolerance, dry mouth, nausea, sore mouth and throat, taste or smell changes, weight loss/gain, etc.
Foods to consume during cancer treatment
A. High-protein foods: A diet high in proteins is required during cancer treatment as these foods help repair tissues damaged by chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery and also prevent muscle wasting. Foods rich in protein help maintain body weight, immune function, and strength which helps in better treatment tolerance, improves recovery rate, and reduces the risk of infections. Examples of high-protein food include eggs, Greek yoghurt, lentils and beans, tofu and paneer, and chicken and fish.
B. Energy-rich foods: Such foods help maintain weight when the patient has low appetite. They also provide necessary calories for tissue repair, to ward off infections, and help manage symptoms due to treatment side effects. Some energy dense foods are avocado, nuts and nut butters, whole grains, and smoothies.
C. Immune-boosting foods: This mostly includes fruits and vegetables such as berries, citrus fruits, spinach and kale, carrots, and sweet potatoes. All these foods are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
Other than the above foods, eating easy-to-digest and hydrating food and drinks also helps. While easy-to-digest foods are helpful for nausea and stomach sensitivity, hydrating food and drinks prevent dehydration during treatment. Bananas, rice, oatmeal, yoghurt, soups and broths fall under easy-to-digest food items. To combat dehydration, drinking coconut water, herbal tea, clear soups, and water-rich fruits (oranges and watermelon) are recommended.
Foods to eat after cancer treatment
Post cancer treatment and during the recovery stages, whole grains (e.g. brown rice, whole wheat bread), anti-inflammatory foods (e.g. fatty fish, olive oil, nuts, and seeds), gut-friendly foods (e.g. yoghurt, fermented foods), and fresh fruits and vegetables should be consumed more often. It is best to limit or completely avoid highly processed foods, excess sugar or processed meat, and alcohol during recovery period.
Foods that mitigate treatment side effects
A. Nausea: Using ginger liberally in meals helps curb the urge to vomit. Eating small, frequent meals rather than heavy ones helps in controlling nausea.
B. Fatigue: Consuming iron-rich foods such as spinach and beans aids in combating fatigue. The diet should primarily consist of protein-loaded foods that give instant energy.
C. Mouth sores: For individuals suffering from mouth sores as a result of cancer treatment, eating soft and mashed foods such as mashed potatoes, yoghurt, and smoothies helps.
Cancer treatment and recovery is a challenging journey that requires good, wholesome food for nourishing the body. Recovery after cancer is a gradual process and good nutrition acts as a powerful tool to help you regain strength and restore vitality. A well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet can help in faster healing by supporting strength, managing side effects, and rebuilding the body post treatment. While consistency is important, listening to your body and adapting to new eating habits will go a long way in improving overall well-being. It is advisable to seek professional guidance from a dietitian or nutritionist who can plan out a tailored diet chart suited to your body needs.