Nutrition is important for good health and a vital component to the healing process. Eating the right kinds of foods before, during and after cancer treatment can help the patient feel better and stay stronger. A healthy diet includes eating and drinking enough of the foods and liquids that have the important nutrients which the body needs. Examples of these nutrients are vitamins, minerals, protein, carbohydrates, fat and water.
Medical Nutrition therapy is used to help cancer patients get the nutrients they need to maintain their body weight and strength, keep their body tissue healthy, and help to fight infection before, during and after cancer treatment.
Eating habits that are good for cancer patients can be very different from the usual healthy eating guidelines, and optimal nutrition can help patients deal with the effects of cancer and its treatment.
Studies show that most cancer treatments work better when the patient is well nourished and gets enough calories and protein in the diet. Cancer patients who are well nourished can have a better chance of recovery and an overall better quality of life.
An Oncology Registered Dietitian can help the patient improve side effects of cancer treatment such as:
loss of appetite
nausea
vomiting
diarrhea
constipation
mouth sores
taste changes
weight loss/weight gain
Make an appointment today with our Oncology Registered Dietitian who can teach you ways to stay healthy before, during and after cancer treatment.
