Maintaining good nutrition can be challenging during cancer treatment, but it’s important for many reasons says Anna Van Osch. As a Registered Dietitian with the Odette Cancer Centre, Patient & Family Support Program, she shares what patients should know about nutrition during treatment.
What does “good nutrition” mean?
Simply, it means making sure a patient gets enough calories and protein to maintain their weight and keep their body strong. For patients who are losing weight or struggling with low appetite, I advise them to choose high-calorie, high-protein foods so they get the most nutrition in every bite. Examples are nuts, seeds, full-fat milk products, eggs, smoothies and shakes. They may find it easier to eat small meals or snacks every two to three hours instead of three larger meals. They can opt for any food that looks appealing. Eating breakfast for dinner is totally fine!
Is protein needed at every meal or snack?
Yes. People with cancer usually need more protein. Protein helps to build muscle and repair healthy cells that are damaged during chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. They can include a protein food, like meat, poultry, fish, legumes (dried beans, peas and lentils), tofu, eggs, dairy products, nuts or seeds at meals and snacks. Protein powder or skim milk powder can also be added to low-protein foods, like oatmeal and congee, to turn them into high-protein foods.
What about hydration?
All liquids provide hydration. If a patient’s weight is stable, water is the drink of choice. If they are losing weight, liquids that contain calories and protein are key; cow’s milk, soy milk, hot chocolate, smoothies, milkshakes and lassi. Soups made with cream, beans or meat contain calories and protein and can help meet nutritional needs.
Are oral nutrition supplements recommended?
Oral nutrition supplement drinks provide extra calories and protein, and can help patients meet their nutritional needs when food is not enough. Patients who are losing weight should pick the “plus calories” versions to get the most nutrition. If they have a medical condition like diabetes or kidney disease, it’s advised they ask a dietitian if a specialized nutrition supplement would be beneficial.
What role does exercise play?
Up to half of newly diagnosed cancer patients have low muscle mass, also called sarcopenia. Low muscle mass can make it harder for patients to do their daily activities and deal with side effects of treatment. Eating enough calories, protein and staying active during treatment helps to maintain and build muscle. Patients should try to be active for 30 minutes every day. Inactive patients can start with 5 minutes of physical activity a day and increase the duration over time.
What are the benefits of good nutrition for patients undergoing cancer treatment?
Good nutrition can help patients maintain their strength, energy, weight and muscle mass. It also means a lower chance of getting an infection or being admitted to hospital during treatment. Robust patients who have good nutrition and exercise regularly usually deal better with the side effects of treatment, stick to their treatment plan, heal and get better faster.
Talk to your health-care team if you have any questions about nutrition or exercise. The Odette Cancer Centre also has nutrition resources for additional support.
