Cancer treatment can be incredibly challenging, often affecting your daily life and nutrition in various ways. As a cancer dietitian with years of experience supporting people through treatment, I understand the difficulties you may face in maintaining proper nutrition during this time. This article offers practical nutrition tips to help you manage some of the most common side effects of cancer treatment, improve how you are feeling, and support your body's healing process.
Before we dive into the nutrition tips, it's important to recognise that both good nutrition and physical activity play vital roles in supporting your wellbeing during and after cancer treatment. Gone are the days when the standard advice for cancer patients was simply to rest. Research clearly shows that regular physical activity can significantly help manage side effects and support recovery. Some benefits include:
Reducing fatigue and bolstering energy levels
Improving mood and reducing anxiety
Maintaining muscle strength and bone health
Supporting your immune system
Managing weight changes
Potentially reducing the risk of cancer recurrence for some cancer types
Some days will naturally be better than others, and that's completely normal. The goal is to maintain nourishing eating habits and stay as active as possible, while also being mindful of your body's needs and limitations. On challenging days, be kind to yourself, and try to return to healthy routines when you're able. Even small efforts in nutrition and physical activity can make a big difference.
If you're unsure where to start with exercise, my physiotherapy colleagues have put together some excellent advice. You can find their guidance here.
Now that we have highlighted the essential role of physical activity in your wellbeing, let's turn to nutrition. Good nutrition can play a significant role in managing side effects and supporting your body during treatment. Although there is often no instant solution to these challenges, taking proactive steps can be immediately empowering. Even small actions towards managing your nutrition can provide a sense of control and positivity during your treatment.
This guide offers practical tips for managing common side effects, but it is important to note that these are just a few ideas. Cancer treatment affects each person differently, and nutritional needs can vary greatly from one individual to another. There are many more strategies and approaches that can be tailored to your specific situation. If you find yourself needing more personalised support, please do not hesitate to contact us for professional guidance.
Here are practical nutrition tips to help you through this time.
Tips to help with nausea
Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day. This approach can be easier on your digestive system than three larger meals.
Cold or room-temperature foods may be more appealing as they have much less smell. Consider options like:
A bowl of cereal with your preferred milk
Hummus with oatcakes, bread sticks, or pitta strips
Yoghurt topped with berries and a sprinkle of nuts and seeds
A smoothie, sipped slowly
Listen to your body and trust your instincts. Focus on foods that appeal to you in the moment. Many find plain, easily digestible foods comforting, such as:
Wholegrain crackers or oatcakes with nut butter
Toast with a savoury spread (like yeast extract or nut butter)
Small banana with a few nuts or seeds
Smooth soup with a slice of toast
Stay hydrated by sipping on liquids between meals. Try:
Herbal teas
Coconut water
Vegetable juice
Clear soup, broth, miso soup, stock
Incorporate ginger, known for its anti-nausea properties:
Add freshly grated ginger to porridge, smoothies, or jelly
Nibble on ginger oatcakes
Sip on warm ginger tea
Staying hydrated is vital. If you're struggling with solid foods, focus on getting enough fluids to prevent dehydration. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate these challenges. If your nausea persists or worsens despite trying these strategies, or if you're unable to keep any food or liquid down, it's important to contact your healthcare team. They can assess your situation and may need to adjust your anti-nausea medication or provide additional support.
Bolstering your appetite
Loss of appetite is common during cancer treatment, but there are gentle ways to support your nutritional needs:
Your body appreciates consistency, so try to have something, even if small, at regular times.
Embrace the 'little and often' approach to eating. Use a side plate instead of a dinner plate to avoid feeling overwhelmed. If you're able to have seconds, celebrate it as a win.
Have nourishing snacks on hand:
Overnight oats
Wholegrain crackers with nut butter, cheese, or hummus
Greek yoghurt with berries
Identify your best eating time. If morning is best, consider front-loading your day with more substantial meals. Remember, there are no rules - porridge can make a great supper time snack!
Sip on nourishing fluids throughout the day:
Homemade smoothies made with fruits, vegetables, and a dollop of yoghurt
Turmeric latte made with your preferred milk
Nourishing broths or soup
Vegetable juice
Milky drinks can be enjoyed warm or cold, using your preferred type of milk
When your appetite is low, focus on nutrient dense options to make each bite count. Be kind to yourself and celebrate the small wins – even managing a few spoonsful is progress. If you are concerned about your nutritional intake or struggling to maintain your weight, contact your healthcare team or a specialist dietitian or nutritionist. They can provide personalised strategies to support your individual needs during treatment. This may include recommending supplement drinks or products, which are often available on prescription as well as over the counter. These can be a helpful addition to your diet when eating is challenging.
Navigating taste changes
Taste changes are common during cancer treatment and can significantly impact your eating and drinking experience and enjoyment. Here are some strategies to help:
Keep your mouth clean and moist, as this can help improve taste perception and overall oral comfort. Your treatment team will provide specific instructions for oral care based on your individual treatment plan. This may include using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques, especially if you're receiving treatment that affects the mouth area. They might also recommend a specialist mouth rinse. Avoid mouthwashes containing alcohol, as these can dry out your mouth and potentially exacerbate soreness. If you notice any unusual changes in your mouth, let your healthcare team know as soon as you can.
Experiment with flavours, temperatures, and consistencies:
Try adding different herbs, spices, seasoning, or marinades to your meals. Explore distinctive flavours such as pesto, olives, capers, tamari, black olive paste (tapenade), Worcester sauce.
Cold or room temperature foods may taste better than hot ones.
Explore both crunchy and smooth textures to see what is most appealing.
Adapt your protein choices: If meat doesn't taste right, try marinating it, or opt for alternative protein sources like fish, eggs, or plant-based proteins such as beans, lentils, or tofu.
Manage metallic tastes:
Use plastic or bamboo cutlery instead of metal.
Try cooking in glass or ceramic dishes instead of metal pans.
Suck on sugar-free mints, pastilles, or other flavoured options to refresh your palate and help eliminate any unpleasant tastes.
Coping with dry mouth
Dry mouth is often misunderstood as a mere inconvenience, but for those experiencing it, especially during cancer treatment, it can severely impact daily life and well-being.
Adapt Your Diet:
Opt for soft, moist foods.
Add gravies or sauces to dry foods.
Try foods with high water content, like cucumber, celery, and melon.
Consider eating frozen fruit or ice lollies if temperature isn't an issue.
Reduce or avoid caffeine and alcohol, as these can dry your mouth.
Keep sipping fluids regularly throughout the day. A small stainless steel bottle can be a great companion when you're on the go. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in your bag without adding extra weight, ensuring you always have water or your drink of choice within reach.
Additional Tips:
Maintain good oral hygiene. Avoid mouthwashes containing alcohol. Many clients have found applying coconut oil inside the mouth helpful; it provides a moist barrier and may have additional antimicrobial benefits.
Sip water or herbal tea (warm or cold) frequently throughout the day to keep your mouth moist.
Try sugar-free gum, mints, pastilles, or other flavoured options to help stimulate saliva production.
Consider trailing dry mouth products available over the counter or on prescription. Some examples include Biotene gel, Oralieve gel, and bioXtra gel. Many clients experiencing dry mouth with have found XyliMelts helpful at nighttime. Your healthcare team can advise on suitable options.
Discuss dry mouth with your healthcare team. They will likely have additional strategies or treatments to help manage this side effect.
Tips for easing constipation
Important Note: The following advice is for general constipation related to cancer treatment. If you are at risk of a blockage caused by cancer partially obstructing the stomach or bowel, or if you have (or have had) bowel cancer, consult your healthcare professional for specialised advice.
To promote regular bowel movements:
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day. Many people report that starting their day with a warm drink can help stimulate bowel activity.
Limit sedentary behaviour, such as prolonged sitting. Reducing time spent inactive can help stimulate bowel movements and improve overall digestive health. Even small movements throughout the day, like standing up regularly or doing gentle stretches, can make a difference.
Gradually increase your fibre intake (to avoid discomfort and bloating) by adding more fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, pulses, and whole grains to your diet. It’s also very important to drink plenty of fluids as you increase your fibre intake, as adequate hydration is essential for helping fibre work effectively in your digestive system.
Research suggests that eating kiwi fruit may help alleviate constipation. You can easily add kiwi to your diet by adding it to yoghurt, cereals smoothies, or enjoying it in salads.
During cancer treatment, there may be times when you need to use stool softeners or laxatives, especially when taking certain medications like painkillers. This is completely normal. Your healthcare team is there to support you, so don't hesitate to discuss any concerns about constipation with them. They can provide guidance on the most appropriate solutions for your individual situation.
Managing diarrhoea
Diarrhoea can be a side effect of certain cancer treatments, but it may also result from other factors like antibiotics or infection. Understanding the cause is important for determining the most appropriate management strategy.
If you've been prescribed anti-diarrhoeal medication by your healthcare team, it's important that you take it exactly as directed. These medications are an important part of managing treatment-related diarrhoea.
If you have pancreatic, colorectal cancer, or a neuroendocrine tumour (NET) that's causing digestive symptoms, the general advice in this section may not be suitable for your specific situation. These cancers can sometimes directly affect digestive function, and management of diarrhoea needs to be tailored to your individual case. In these cases, or if you're unsure about the cause of your diarrhoea, it's important to consult your healthcare team for personalised guidance.
The following tips are general recommendations for managing treatment-related diarrhoea. Everyone's situation is unique, and it's always best to discuss any new symptoms or changes with your treatment team before making dietary or lifestyle adjustments.
Tips to help manage diarrhoea:
Stay hydrated: Replacing fluid losses is essential. Try sipping water and herbal teas. Salty fluids like clear broths, miso soup, or stock can be helpful, as they provide both fluids and electrolytes. Remember to sip slowly and frequently. Oral rehydration salts are also available to help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium.
Eat smaller, more frequent meals: This can be easier on your digestive system than large meals.
Listen to your body: While food isn't usually the primary cause of diarrhoea during cancer treatment, pay attention to how different foods affect you. Try foods you fancy in small amounts. Many people find that spicy, fatty, greasy, or fried foods, alcohol, caffeine, and artificial sweeteners like xylitol or sorbitol can worsen symptoms.
Consider fibre intake: While scientific evidence is limited, some people find symptomatic relief by modifying their diet for a day or two. This may include opting for easily digestible foods like stewed apple, banana, natural yoghurt, porridge, plain crackers, smoothies, soups, broths, eggs, fish, chicken, and sweet potato (without the skin). If you notice that high fibre foods seem to worsen symptoms, you might consider reducing them temporarily. Only do this if it helps and aim to return to a balanced diet that includes fibre as soon as you can.
If diarrhoea persists, seek early advice from your healthcare team as it can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
Tips to manage fatigue
Fatigue is an incredibly common side effect of cancer treatment. It can be persistent, lasting not just during your treatment but often for some time afterward.
Cancer-related fatigue often differs from typical tiredness. It can be more persistent and may not always improve after rest or sleep. Many find it more challenging than any fatigue they've experienced before, significantly impacting daily life. Tasks like planning meals, grocery shopping, and cooking can feel like climbing a mountain or "wading through treacle". Many people face similar struggles with fatigue.
Physical activity: There is strong evidence supporting the benefits of physical activity in managing cancer-related fatigue. In fact, exercise is one of the most effective treatments available! Starting slowly with low-intensity exercise is generally safe for most people during treatment. Take a look at the physical activity resources shared earlier in the article. If you're experiencing severe side effects from treatment, have bone disease, lymphoedema, cardiotoxicity or other health concerns, or are unsure whether exercise is safe for you, it is essential to seek guidance from your treatment team.
Avoiding the ‘boom and bust’ cycle: You might find yourself having good days where you want to do everything – exercise, socialise, cleaning, cooking – followed by days where you barely have the energy to get out of bed. This 'boom and bust' cycle is common, and it can leave you feeling frustrated and even more exhausted. Instead, try to aim for a steady, manageable pace in all aspects of your life.
The 3 P's: Prioritising, Planning, and Pacing. While each of these concepts could fill pages with ideas, here’s a brief example for each to get you started:
Prioritising: Focus on what you must do over what you could do. It's more than okay to say no to some activities to conserve energy for what truly matters to you. Prioritise what sustains you and aim to limit the things that drain you.
Planning: Consider identifying your trickiest meal of the day - perhaps your evening meal - and plan that one meal for the week ahead. Stock up on the necessary ingredients so you’re not using precious energy deciding what to eat when you're already tired. Additionally, having a few ready-made dishes in the freezer that you can simply take out and warm up can be a big help.
Pacing: Picture your day as a series of gentle waves rather than one big surge. Try 'bookending' your activities with periods of rest and relaxation. It’s tempting to fill every moment with action, but allowing time to catch your breath between tasks can help you maintain energy throughout the day.
These strategies are ideas to support you, not to add pressure. Feel free to explore and expand upon these ideas as you what works best for you.
Stay hydrated: Ensuring you stay well-hydrated is essential, as even mild dehydration can lead to increased feelings of fatigue and exhaustion. Proper hydration supports your body’s functions and helps maintain energy levels.
Accept offers of help: This isn't always easy, but it's an important part of taking care of yourself. People genuinely want to support you during this time. Whether it's a friend offering to pick up groceries or a neighbour willing to walk your dog, these small acts of kindness can make a big difference in your day. For more insights on how to accept and seek help in a way that truly benefits you, take a look at my article on this topic.
Check your levels: If you notice a sudden increase in fatigue or a significant change in your energy levels, let your healthcare team know. They may recommend checking important markers like haemoglobin and iron levels, which could be affecting your energy. This might involve a blood test or other assessments to help identify the cause of your fatigue.
Supporting your immune system
A common question is, "What can I eat to boost my immune system?" While no single food can magically 'boost' immunity, a nourishing diet can make a significant difference. When possible, aim to include a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and beneficial fats in your meals. However, struggling with side effects like mouth soreness, dry mouth, or digestive upset can make this very challenging! A tailored nutrition approach can help manage these side effects while supporting your body's natural defences. This can improve your resilience during treatment and help to catalyse recovery. Additionally, many of the clients I support benefit from vitamin D supplementation.
For more comprehensive guidance, including nutrition tips and other practical strategies, I've created a free ebook: "10 Tips to Bolster Your Immune System During and After Treatment." If you haven't already, you can download it here.
Cancer treatment nutrition - support and next steps
Navigating nutrition during cancer treatment can be challenging, and it's important to remember that you are not alone in this. Each person's experience with cancer and its treatment is unique. What works for one person may not work for another, and that’s completely normal. Be patient with yourself as you discover what works best for you, and don’t forget to celebrate small victories along the way.
Good nutrition plays a vital role in your care and recovery. Support is available if you need it. Ask your treatment team about a referral to an NHS cancer dietitian or nutritionist. They can provide tailored advice to help you meet your nutritional needs. If you're seeking additional private support, I am here to help. Many of the tips in this blog are just a starting point, and I’d be delighted to offer more personalised guidance. Feel free to get in touch.
Email: info@thecancerdietitian.com
Telephone: 020 8064 2865
Appointments: book here
The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered personalised nutrition, dietetic, or medical advice. Please consult your healthcare team for personalised advice and guidance regarding your specific medical condition or dietary needs.
Comentários