As Stephen R Covey said “We must never be busy to take time to sharpen the saw” and when you are in the middle of a fight with cancer you should always keep yourself equipped with the best cancer care nutrition.
Cancer is a debilitating disease affecting millions of people worldwide. While treatments like chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation play a significant role in limiting cancer, nutrition also plays a crucial role in enhancing a patient’s life. A balanced diet can help minimize treatment side effects and sustain mobility and strength. In this blog, we will explore the importance of a balanced diet for cancer care.
Malnutrition with cancer and cancer therapy:
Taste, smell, appetite, and the capacity to consume enough food or absorb nutrients, all can be impacted by cancer and cancer treatments. This may result in malnutrition, a disorder brought on by insufficient intake of essential nutrients.
A person suffering from malnutrition may feel weak, exhausted, and unable to fight off an illness or complete cancer therapy. Malnutrition can also lower a person's quality of life and even pose a threat to their life. If the malignancy develops or spreads, the malnutrition could get worse.
ANOREXIA:
The loss of appetite or desire to eat is known as anorexia. It is the most frequent cause of malnutrition in cancer patients as well as a prevalent symptom. If the cancer develops or spreads, anorexia may appear sooner in the course of the illness or later. When they receive a cancer diagnosis, some people already suffer from anorexia. Anorexia is common in most cancer patients with advanced disease.
CACHEXIA:
The symptoms of cachexia include weakness, loss of body fat and muscle, and weight loss. Those with malignancies that interfere with eating and digesting frequently experience it. It can happen to cancer patients who eat healthily but do not store muscle or fat due to tumor growth.
Understanding the Role of Nutrition in Cancer Care:
Supporting Treatment: Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can have tough side effects on the body, often causing side effects like nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. To manage nausea, choose bland, soft, and easy-to-digest foods, such as dry foods and white toast, and consume them slowly throughout the day. Avoid strong smells, eat 5-6 small meals daily, and avoid skipping meals or snacks. Rinse your mouth before and after eating, avoid cooking odors, and maintain a comfortable living space. Sit up or lie with your head raised for one hour after eating. Plan optimal eating and drinking times, relax before cancer treatments, wear loose clothes, and record nausea symptoms. Consult with your doctor about antiemetics to prevent nausea and vomiting.
Maintaining Strength and Energy: Cancer and its treatments can lead to muscle loss, fatigue, and weakness. A nutritious diet provides essential nutrients that help maintain energy levels and support muscle strength.
Supporting the Immune System: Infection prevention and the battle against cancer depend heavily on a robust immune system. A balanced diet can help you acquire certain minerals that are important for immune function, like zinc, selenium, and vitamins A, C, and E.
Promoting Healing and Recovery: Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy can all cause damage to normal cells and tissues. Protein, vitamins, and minerals are among the nutrients that are necessary for tissue healing and repair.
Basic Nutrients needed for Cancer Patients:
Protein: Protein is necessary for immune system stimulation, wound healing, and sustaining muscular growth and strength. Lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, beans, lentils, and tofu are all excellent sources of protein.
Fruits and Vegetables: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that promote general health and may help lower the risk of cancer, colorful fruits and vegetables are a great source of these nutrients. Incorporate a range of fruits and vegetables into your diet, with an emphasis on cruciferous vegetables such as kale and broccoli, as well as leafy greens, berries, and citrus fruits.
Whole Grains: Whole grains provide fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Select whole grain products over refined ones, such as white bread and rice, such as oats, brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread.
Good Fats: Omega-3 fatty acids found in flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts and fatty fish like salmon have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Olive oil, avocado and nuts are also good sources of good fats.
Hydration: Staying hydrated is the key for overall health, especially during cancer treatment. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day and include hydrating foods like soups, fruits, and vegetables in your diet.
Tips for Managing Treatment Side Effects:
Nausea and Vomiting: Eat small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day. Avoid spicy, greasy, or heavy foods that may trigger nausea. Ginger, peppermint, and herbal teas can help alleviate nausea.
Loss of Appetite: Focus on eating nutrient-dense foods that pack a lot of calories and nutrients into small portions. Consider drinking smoothies or protein shakes if solid foods are unappealing.
Taste Changes: Experiment with different flavors and textures to find appealing foods. Marinating meats, adding herbs and spices, or trying tart or sour foods can help mask unpleasant tastes.
Mouth Sores: Choose soft, moist foods that are easy to chew and swallow, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods that can irritate mouth sores.
Fatigue: Prioritize rest and conserve energy by planning meals and snacks ahead of time. Eating small, balanced meals throughout the day can help maintain energy levels.
Incorporating Nutrition into Your Cancer Care Plan:
Work with a Registered Dietitian: A registered dietitian can help develop a personalized nutrition plan based on your individual needs, preferences, and treatment goals.
Stay Active: Regular physical activity can help improve appetite, boost energy levels, and reduce fatigue. Talk to your healthcare provider about safe and appropriate exercise options during treatment.
Heed to Your Body: Pay attention to how different foods make you feel and adjust your diet accordingly. If certain foods or beverages cause discomfort or exacerbate side effects, try alternatives that are easier to tolerate.
Seek Support: Joining a support group or connecting with other cancer patients can provide emotional support and practical tips for managing nutrition-related challenges.
Nutrition plays a crucial role in cancer care, supporting treatment effectiveness, maintaining strength and energy, and promoting overall well-being. By focusing on nutrient-rich foods, managing treatment side effects, and working with healthcare professionals, cancer patients can optimize their nutrition and enhance their quality of life throughout their journey. Remember, every bite you take is a step towards nourishing your body and nourishing the fight against cancer.