How Should Nutrition Be in Cancer Treatment

How Should Nutrition Be in Cancer Treatment?

Nutrition in Cancer Treatment; Cancer is a disease that is increasingly common today and significantly affects individuals and families diagnosed with it. Individuals’ psychology, social relationships, and nutrition are all influenced by this condition.

Medical nutrition therapy applied to cancer patients is crucial for the spread of cancer in the body, the progression of its stage, the positive response to medical treatment, and the management of side effects experienced due to treatment.

Individuals who eat healthily strengthen cellular nutrition, thus increasing the rate of proliferation and renewal of healthy cells. Nutrition during cancer is important throughout the entire process, regardless of treatment or stage.

How Should Nutrition Be Before Cancer Treatment?

Contrary to popular belief, the concept of total muscle mass is more important than the ideal weight concept before and during treatment. It will be beneficial for very thin individuals to gain weight, especially in muscle tissue. It is also crucial not to become exhausted during the treatment process.

Before cancer treatment, a diet rich in protein, healthy fat sources, and antioxidants should be followed. Eating a colorful diet, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding processed foods can support the treatment process.

What Are the Benefits of Water Consumption During Treatment?

During cancer treatment, there is intense drug exposure, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Therefore, the amount of water consumed is as important as the question, “How should cancer patients eat?” The first step in eliminating these high doses of drugs from the body is to drink plenty of water. High fluid intake can optimize detoxification pathways such as sweating and defecation. Adequate water consumption is also a sensitive point to alleviate complications like headaches and fatigue during cancer treatment.

What Foods Should Be Consumed During Treatment?

When creating a nutrition therapy plan for cancer patients, there are several important food groups to focus on. Nutrition in cancer should be planned by a dietitian to support the treatment process. This way, the most suitable nutrition therapy for the individual’s height, weight, and overall health can be prepared. Consuming a high amount of protein sources during cancer treatment strengthens the body’s repair and renewal reactions and minimizes muscle loss. Eggs, turkey, chicken, fish, and legumes are protein sources that do not cause inflammation. Red meat and dairy products can also be consumed in moderation. One of the most important micronutrients in cancer-fighting is antioxidants, which are found in high amounts in organic fruits and vegetables. Dark red and purple fruits like blueberries, plums, raspberries, blackcurrants, sour cherries, and watermelon, as well as yellow and orange fruits, are rich in antioxidants. Foods rich in sulfur, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, are also vegetables that should not be forgotten during the cancer and nutrition period. Sources rich in omega-3, such as olive oil, walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, and cashews, can also be good examples for antioxidant nutrition. Another point to consider when planning nutrition therapy for cancer patients is to include foods that individuals enjoy. This can make it easier to obtain the necessary calories and nutrients despite a decreased appetite.

What Foods Should Be Reduced During Treatment?

Just as there are things to do during cancer treatment, there are also foods to avoid. Some foods should be removed from the dietary pattern both as healthy eating recommendations and as a common approach in cancer nutrition therapies. Foods that should not be consumed during cancer treatment include:

• The frying method, which produces a carcinogenic substance called “acrylamide,” should not be used.
• Grilling or barbecuing, which exposes food to direct heat regardless of whether it is wood or charcoal, should be avoided as it increases carcinogenic effects.
• Carbonated and acidic beverages should also be avoided during this period.
• Organ meats should not be consumed due to their high carcinogenic effects.
• Any food sold openly should not be consumed due to hygiene concerns.
• If there are specific foods that your oncology dietitian advises you not to consume during the treatment process, you should also avoid those foods. Regular check-ups and consultations should not be neglected, and information exchange about nutrition should be maintained.

What Are the Side Effects That May Arise During Treatment?

Cancer treatment is a process that requires intense effort, patience, and faith through its many stages. The body undergoes a rigorous medical treatment process with intense drugs, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. With the increased metabolic rate, many different complaints and symptoms can be observed. Just as regulating nutrition is important in all types of cancer, so is the patient’s lifestyle. This way, the side effects of treatment can be tolerated more easily. The most common side effects during the cancer treatment process are listed below:

• Fatigue and tiredness: Fatigue and tiredness are often seen 2-3 days after chemotherapy or in individuals receiving radiotherapy. Extra attention should be paid to nutrition on such days.
• Loss of appetite: Another common side effect during the treatment process in cancer patients is loss of appetite. The medical treatment applied reduces the desire to eat.
• Nausea: Many individuals may experience nausea 2-3 days after chemotherapy or in those receiving abdominal radiotherapy.
• Dizziness: Dizziness may occur within 2-3 days after chemotherapy.
• Hair loss: Hair loss, one of the most tangible side effects of some chemotherapy drugs, is among the ongoing complaints during the treatment process.
• Increased susceptibility to infection: Due to decreased immunity, individuals may become more susceptible to diseases and infections during this period.
• Oral sores: Due to the negative impact of the medical treatment on the individual’s immunity, sores known as aphthae may occur in the mouth. When creating a nutrition therapy plan for cancer patients, foods with very hot and sharp tastes are reduced during this process.
• Depression and lack of motivation: Concerns about health, significant changes in the body, and a sensitive mood can lead to depression. In such cases, do not hesitate to seek support from psychology experts and do not neglect your appointments.

What Is the Importance of Protein, Carbohydrate, and Vitamin Supplements in Cancer Treatment?

In cancer, metabolic rate increases. As a result, nutritional needs increase, and there is a greater need for vitamins and minerals. Adequate intake of protein, carbohydrates, and fats helps to close the energy gap in the body. However, micronutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, are also critical for optimal cellular nutrition. Many dietary supplements may be needed for the health of systems such as the intestines, immune system, and cardiovascular health, including omega-3 for immune support, vitamin D and magnesium for bone and muscle health, and iron to prevent anemia. The important point here is that supplements should be used in a personalized and correct dosage. Therefore, to ensure a healthier process, do not neglect to consult your doctor and oncology dietitian regarding the use of dietary supplements and to use them correctly and as needed.

How Should Nutrition Be According to Cancer Types?

One of the most frequently asked questions by cancer patients and their relatives is whether there is a different nutritional therapy according to cancer types. Many factors, such as the individual’s health history, blood values, and medications used, are effective in creating a nutrition therapy plan. Nutrition therapies for cancer patients are created with personalized meals and contents. Therefore, methods applied by others should not be used at all.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nutrition in Cancer