What should I eat during cancer treatment?

During cancer treatment, good nutrition may look different from what we usually think of as a healthy diet. According to the National Cancer Institute, people with cancer often need extra protein and calories.

For most people, a healthy diet includes lots of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. It also means modest protein, and small amounts of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. But when you have cancer, your diet may need more meat, fish, eggs, dairy, fats, and plant-based proteins. The extra protein and calories help you keep your strength up to deal with side effects. They also help prevent malnutrition and protect your best possible quality of life.

Treatment can cause eating problems. These include nausea, dry mouth, mouth sores, taste changes, and trouble swallowing. There are specific tips to manage each one. Some treatments also weaken your immune system, so food safety is important. Keep foods at safe temperatures. Scrub raw produce. Use separate utensils and cutting boards for meats and produce.

A registered dietitian is the best person to guide you. They can work out the right amount of protein and calories for you and build a nutrition care plan. Ask your doctor for a referral, above all if you are losing weight or having trouble eating.