Cancer News Information

A cancer diagnosis almost always leads to a multi-pronged approach to treatment. Many patients undergo surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy, and various holistic strategies may be explored as well. On top of these options, nutritional changes can improve the success rate of more traditional treatments. Cancer center staffs often include nutritionists who guide patients to healthy and helpful food choices.

Nutrition is important for individuals who are fighting cancerous diseases because the right kinds of foods can lend the body strength during and after medical treatments. Additionally, some foods can help the body fight and prevent the formation of malicious cells. However, radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery can affect the appetite and make nutritional choices difficult. Professionals such as those who work at a cancer center can help patients navigate difficulties and develop a balanced, beneficial diet.

Well-balanced diets can aid patients in maintaining a healthy weight and fighting side effects during treatment. It is important for individuals undergoing chemotherapy and radiation to receive a variety of nutrients, including fats, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Phytonutrients, the nutrients gained from plant products, and antioxidants are also key elements in the diets of oncology patients. Many nutritionists believe that nutrients from the plant, as opposed to the animal, kingdom are more helpful in fighting dangerous cells. Antioxidants can be found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, and they attack free radicals, preventing them from harming healthy cells.

Various nutritional adjustments may be used to combat common side effects and complications encountered during the course of treatment. For example, diarrhea and stomach cramping can be addressed with a temporary, low-fiber diet. Patients with compromised immune systems are advised to eat well-cooked, carefully prepared foods and avoid cross-contamination. Nausea, dry mouth, and mouth or throat sores may present dietary complications as well. Liquid meals or easy-to-eat foods such as soft fruits can provide necessary nutritional elements without causing pain. Each side effect presents its own challenge, but dietary solutions are available.

Cancer center patients who meet with professional nutritionists are asked to provide a comprehensive look at their unique circumstances. Every oncology patient has an individual set of symptoms, treatments, and concerns. For each patient, there are nutritional recommendations for the time leading up to treatment, during treatment, and after treatment. Before treatment, the focus falls on feeling as well as possible and eating foods that build strength. During treatment, foods that manage and prevent side effects are most important, and after treatment, strength-building foods to help the patient move forward are most recommended.

Nutritional requirements vary from patient to patient, and especially children or elderly individuals may require different nourishment than an adult patient. However, the principles of using healthy, well-balanced diets to manage cancerous cells and side effects span across most patients. While radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery may be the first line of combat, nutritional planning can contribute to healing.