How to Eat During Cancer Treatment

Nutrition in the treatment of cancer is not only a support, but an element that directly affects the success of treatment. Proper nutrition helps maintain body resistance, reduce side effects and speed up the recovery process. Approaches to nutrition before, during and after chemotherapy differ.

Preparation Before Chemotherapy

To prepare your body for treatment, you should turn to foods that are easy to digest and nutritious:

• Light Picks: Give preference to lean, low-spicy and boiled foods. Avoid frying and acidic drinks.
• Fluid Support: Consume plenty of fluids (water, soup, buttermilk, yogurt) at frequent intervals and in small portions.
• Fruit Consumption: Fruits such as apples, kiwi, melons and watermelons must necessarily be consumed peeled. Fruits with peel, such as grapes and plums, should be thoroughly washed and soaked in vinegar water.
• Dining Out: Avoid raw salads in restaurants; opt for baked or boiled options.

Things to Consider During Chemotherapy

While treatment is ongoing, certain nutrients may interact with medications or trigger side effects:

• CRITICAL WARNING: During the treatment period grapefruit and do not consume grapefruit juice; it can change the effect of drugs.
• Nausea Management: Corn flakes, salty peppers, or peanuts can help suppress nausea.
• Oral Health: Consuming ice cream can reduce the risk of possible wounds (mucositis) by reducing intraoral bleeding.
• Avoid Caffeine: Prefer fresh juices or herbal teas instead of coffee and caffeinated drinks.
• Protein Support: High-protein puddings or medical nutrition products can be used in snacks to prevent weight loss.

Post-Treatment and Recovery Period

After the treatment is completed, a balanced course should be followed for the body to repair itself:

• Consume at least five servings of vegetables and fruits per day.
• Limit the consumption of red meat to once a week, do not neglect dairy products.
• Prefer the fruit itself rather than juice extracts.

The Power of Exercise and Rehabilitation

In the cancer process, not only nutrition is vital, but also moving. Tailor-made, low-intensity exercise programs provide:

• Corrects muscle strength, flexibility and posture (posture).
• Strengthens the capacity of the heart and lungs.
• Reduces the feeling of depression, fatigue and weakness.
• Reduces the risk of lymphedema after surgery.