Cancer treatments can make eating difficult.
Edith Stokes, registered dietitian at the Odette Cancer Centre, says that depending on the type of treatment you are having, you may lose your appetite, have digestion issues like nausea, vomiting or heart burn, or food may taste and smell differently.
All those things – coupled with cancer-related fatigue – can make it hard to eat during cancer treatment. Each person reacts differently to treatment, but overall changes in eating is a common concern, Edith says.
Eating well during cancer treatment can help you have more energy, feel better and keep your body strong.
Edith has three key tidbits for patients undergoing cancer treatments.
1. We don’t want you to lose weight.
Many patients undergoing treatment find themselves losing weight and think it’s not a bad idea to shed a few extra pounds. But that’s not the case. It’s important to try to prevent weight loss during this time. “We want you to preserve your strength and immunity,” she says. “So it’s not a good time to drop the extra weight you’ve been carrying.” Try to get enough calories as you may need more energy than usual to help you heal.
2. Make your fluids count.
It’s important to stay hydrated, and drinking lots of water is great. But, if you are having trouble eating enough calories, make your fluids count and drink nutritious things instead of plain water.
“Try a smoothie or a shake,” Edith says. Here’s a recipe. “Or try a soup with a milk-base, so it has the protein from the milk.” If you are having a hard time eating and drinking, having something in your stomach is better than nothing, Edith says. “So, while choosing a high-protein soup with lentils is better than a drive-thru milkshake, absolutely go for the milkshake if that’s what you can handle. If you don’t feel like eating anything at all, try a chocolate milk or a popsicle.”
3. Protein. Protein. Protein.
“You need more protein during cancer treatment,” Edith says. “Protein is needed for tissue repair and to keep your muscle mass to maintain strength.” Be sure to include protein at each meal and snack. These include:
- Meat, fish and poultry
- Milk and milk products like cottage cheese, yogurt, milk-based soups. Be sure to check product labels; alternatives like rice milk and coconut milk don’t have much protein in them.
- Eggs
- Dry beans and peas. (more on those little gems here.)
- Nuts and seeds (these are easy and convenient to keep a small container in your bag).
- Nut butters (peanut butter, almond butter.)
If your comfort food is a tea and toast, Edith recommends adding a little bit of peanut butter to your toast or a piece of cheese – that way you are getting a bit of protein.
Crackers and cheese make a nice, light snack. Or try Greek yogurt with some fresh fruit.
“We understand that you are tired and may be having trouble preparing foods,” Edith says. “Make each bite you put in your mouth count by including protein and keep easy choices close.”
Speak to your health-care team if you are having difficulty eating. They can connect you with a registered dietitian or other supports.
Check out the Canadian Cancer Society and the American Institute for Cancer Research for more information. Wellspring is a network of community-based resource centres. Check out their site for local diet workshops.
