Nutrition During Chemotherapy

During chemotherapy, the energy provided by a healthy diet can help you rebuild normal cells. It can also help you keep up your strength and fight infection. As a result, you may feel better and be more able to cope with side effects. Ask your doctor about your nutrition needs.

Drink Plenty of Fluids

• Fluids help the body produce urine and decrease constipation. They help prevent kidney and bladder problems.

• They help replace fluids lost from vomiting and diarrhea.

• Try water, unsweetened juices, and other flavored drinks without caffeine. They flush toxins from the body.

Get Enough Calories

• Calories act as the body’s fuel. The body uses this fuel to perform all of its functions, including healing.

• To get enough calories, eat foods such as ice cream (if tolerated), avocados, and eggs.

• Add butter, gravy, and sauces to foods (if tolerated).

Eat Protein

• Protein builds muscle, bone, skin, and blood.

• It helps your body heal and fight infection.

• Good choices include yogurt, eggs, chicken, lean meats, and peanut butter.

• You may want to ask your doctor about instant protein powder or other supplements.

Eating Right During Treatment

Side effects may make it a little harder to eat well on some days. The following tips will help you to continue to get the nutrition you need.

• Be open to new foods and recipes.

• Eat small portions often and slowly.

• Have a healthy snack instead of a meal if you are not very hungry.

• Try eating in a new setting.

• Take a walk before eating.

• Round off your diet with vitamins from fruit, vegetables, and grains.

• If you live alone and are not up to cooking, ask your doctor or nurse about “Meals on Wheels” or other outreach programs.