Nutrition Matters During Cancer Treatment

Cancer treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation, can take a toll on the body. Side effects such as nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, and changes in taste can make eating feel like a challenge. However, fueling your body with the right nutrients can help mitigate these effects and promote healing. Proper nutrition during treatment:

• Boosts Energy: Good nutrition helps fight fatigue, which is a common side effect of cancer treatments. Nutrient-dense foods provide the energy your body needs to stay strong.
• Strengthens the Immune System: A healthy diet supports your immune system, helping your body better fight infections and recover from treatment.
• Maintains Muscle Mass: Cancer treatment can lead to muscle loss, but a diet rich in protein helps maintain muscle strength and tissue repair.
• Promotes Healing: Nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants aid in tissue repair, skin health, and faster recovery after surgery or treatment.

Expert Tips for Nutrition During Cancer Treatment

Focus on Small, Frequent Meals

Patients often experience a reduced appetite during treatment, but it’s important to try and eat regularly. Instead of three large meals, aim for five or six smaller meals throughout the day. This helps maintain energy levels and ensures you’re getting a steady supply of nutrients.

Keep Protein Front and Center

Protein is essential for healing, maintaining muscle mass, and boosting the immune system. Good sources of protein include lean meats, eggs, dairy, beans, lentils, and tofu. If you’re having trouble eating solid foods, consider smoothies or protein shakes as a more palatable option.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can worsen fatigue and make side effects like nausea more intense. Aim to drink at least 8-10 cups of fluids daily. Water is the best option, but you can also include herbal teas, soups, or smoothies to increase your intake.

Choose Easy-to-Digest Foods

Some cancer treatments can make digestion more challenging. If you experience nausea or stomach upset, it’s helpful to eat bland, easy-to-digest foods like bananas, oatmeal, or boiled potatoes. Avoid spicy or greasy foods that may irritate your stomach. 

Manage Taste Changes

Chemotherapy can alter taste buds, making food taste bland or metallic. Experimenting with different flavors to find what works for you. For example, Lemon, ginger, and mint are great options for adding flavor without making food too overwhelming. Try marinating meats or vegetables in herbs and spices to make meals more palatable.

How Grand Lake Regional Cancer Center Can Help

At Grand Lake Regional Cancer Center, we know that cancer treatment is not just about medical procedures—it’s about the whole person. Our oncology dietitians work closely with patients to create personalized nutrition plans that address individual needs, preferences, and treatment side effects. Whether it’s helping with meal planning, offering nutrition education, or providing resources to manage treatment-related symptoms, we’re here to support your recovery.

If you have questions about nutrition or need assistance with meal planning during your cancer journey, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re here to help you stay nourished, strong, and healthy as you navigate your treatment and recovery.

Nourish Your Body, Nourish Your Spirit

Proper nutrition plays an essential role in cancer recovery, supporting the body as it heals, rebuilds, and strengthens. With the right diet, cancer patients can manage treatment side effects, boost energy levels, and improve overall well-being. At Grand Lake Regional Cancer Center, we’re committed to providing expert nutrition guidance to help our patients thrive during their cancer journey.

If you’d like to learn more or schedule a consultation with our oncology dietitians, please contact us today. Let us help you nourish your body—and your spirit—through every stage of treatment and recovery.