Food may be the last thing on your mind during chemotherapy, but it’s important to eat a balanced diet that includes all the nutrients your body needs. Eating healthy foods during chemo can help you keep up your strength and help your body fight infection better. Research has shown that women who eat well have an easier time handling the side effects of chemo and that their bodies can restore healthy tissues faster.
You should consume enough calories to keep your weight at a healthy point. Your body is going through a lot right now, and the foods you eat should contain enough protein to strengthen tissues that cancer treatment may damage. You can better cope with side effects and defend your body against infection by eating well during chemo.
Chemo treatment may contribute to a loss of appetite, or its side effects may make it tough for you to eat. If you find that it’s difficult to eat for an extended period of time, your doctor may suggest you be nourished intravenously until your appetite returns.
If you’ve lost your appetite, try the following suggestions:
- Eat small, nutritious meals or snacks. Change your daily food intake to four to six small meals instead of eating three square meals a day
- Keep healthy snacks nearby so you will have something to nibble on when hunger strikes
- Drink plenty of fluids. If you prefer getting your nutrients in liquid form rather than in solid form, eat soup and drink juice. They can provide you with the calories and sustenance that you need
- Mix things up. Change your routine by trying new recipes and foods
- Take a walk before meals if you have the time. Walks can spark your appetite
- Eat in a different spot to break up daily monotony
- Spend mealtimes with friends and family members. Listen to music or switch on the television when you’re eating alone
- Ask your doctor or a member of your medical team about nutrition supplements
- Although alcohol can help trigger your appetite, if may interact unfavorably with some of the drugs you are taking and even intensify their side effects. It’s best to ask your doctor if you can drink alcohol, and how much you can drink, during chemo treatment
- Talk to your dietitian about what you should be consuming during chemo treatment