Eating a wholesome and balanced diet while on chemotherapy can help patients respond well during the treatment process and improve their overall well-being. As chemotherapy can lower appetite, cause nausea and weaken the immune system. It is essential to choose foods that are gentle on the stomach and packed with nutrients. Good nutrition helps the body maintain stamina and energy levels, repair tissues, withstand treatment, and reduce the impact of side effects.
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Some of the side effects of chemotherapy sessions include dry mouth, change in taste, nausea and exhaustion. These side effects can make it harder to meet the nutritional needs of the patient. Here we have curated the 5 best foods that may help support patients during chemotherapy treatment.
Superfoods to Optimise Health During Chemotherapy
Oatmeal
Oatmeal offers several key nutrients that can help the body recuperate during chemo. It packs ample reserves of complex carbs, protein, healthy fats and antioxidants than most grains.
Also, the neutral flavour and creamy texture of oatmeal are especially beneficial for those experiencing chemo side effects like dry mouth or mouth sores.
To make a wholesome oatmeal breakfast, soak oats in milk and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, top it with liberal servings of berries, nuts and seeds, and drizzle maple syrup or honey to enhance the taste.
Avocado
If you have a poor appetite, avocados can offer needed calories and nutrients to your meal regimen. This creamy, butter fruit is rich in healthy monounsaturated fatty acids and dietary fiber that keep you satiated and full. Avocados are mild and an excellent option if you are experiencing dry mouth, constipation, mouth sores or weight loss.
Simply blend them with pepper and spread on a toast or bread slice for a unique and wholesome treat.
Eggs
Fatigue is a common side effect of chemotherapy. Eggs are wholesome food that can combat exhaustion as they are loaded with generous amounts of protein and fats, about 6grams and 5 grams respectively in a single large egg. The healthy source of fat offers the body the needed energy, and protein maintains muscle mass and strength, which is important during chemotherapy.
You can have them as hair-boiled eggs as a standalone snack or scramble them for a wholesome meal. Ensure that they are completely cooked to prevent food poisoning.
Yogurt
Yogurt is an incredible source of probiotics, healthy protein, fat and calcium that support gut microbiome balance and digestive health. During chemotherapy, having yoghurt helps restore gut bacteria affected by treatment and reduces side effects such as diarrhoea and abdominal cramps. Have yogurt with topped with fruits or add them to smoothies or breakfast cereals.
Nuts
Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews are perfect for easy-to-take-on-the-go snacks that also boost ample loads of healthy fats, protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Almonds, being intrinsically rich in manganese and copper, offer potent antioxidants that combat free radicals that damage healthy cells and prevents risk of inflammation.
Nuts can be added generously to oatmeal, breakfast cereals, or as snacks. If you are experiencing mouth sores, then nuts may be hard to eat, so you may want to choose nut butters.
Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds are a great snack to munch on between chemo appointments. They are filled with fats, protein and antioxidants like vitamin E that help ease inflammation and optimise overall health.
Make your own wholesome nut trail mix by blending pumpkin seeds, dried fruits, almonds and seeds of your choice.
Bananas
Bananas are high in potassium and natural carbohydrates that are simple to digest and help replenish electrolytes. It offers a steady supply of fuel and reduces fatigue and muscle weakness associated with chemotherapy.
Enjoy them as a standalone snack, blend into smoothies or add to oatmeal or yogurt.
Cruciferous vegetables
A rich array of cruciferous vegetables like kale, broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage boasts a dense profile of nutrients. While broccoli, loaded with vitamin C, helps to bolster the immune system and keeps infections at bay.
Steam these veggies with olive oil and a dash of salt and lemon to enhance the taste.
Also Read: Cancer Diet: Nutritional Recommendation Before, During and After Cancer Treatment
How Nutrition Helps During Chemotherapy?
Nutrition plays a critical role in supporting cancer patients during chemotherapy treatment.
Maintains body strength, stamina and prevents weight loss.
Helps the body repair tissues damaged by treatment and recuperate.
Supports the immune system and keeps infections at bay.
Reduces the treatment side effects of chemotherapy, such as fatigue, nausea, and infection risk
Improves treatment tolerance and recovery.
Additional Nutrition Tips
Practice mindful eating habits, eat small, frequent meals instead of three large meals.
Good hydration helps to replenish fluids lost and maintain electrolyte balance.
Choose high-protein foods to help preserve lean muscle mass and improve weight.
Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains and a healthy source of protein in every meal.
Avoid highly processed, oily or very spicy foods if nausea occurs.
References
Food intake during cancer therapy: a systematic review
Teresa Conigliaro 1, Lindsay M Boyce 2, Carlos A Lopez 3, Emily S Tonorezos 2,4
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7584741/
https://journals.innovareacademics.in/index.php/ijcpr/article/view/13881/6586
Plant Based Anti-cancerous Superfoods, Boosting
Immunity: A Coherent Critique
Tripti Verma* and Alka Gupta
Department of Food Nut and Public Health, Ethelind College of Home Science,
Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences,
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India
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