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Cancer continues to be one of the most critical global health challenges and a leading cause of death worldwide. In India, the burden is particularly significant, with an estimated 916,827 cancer-related deaths reported in 2022 alone. Beyond its physical impact, cancer can significantly affect appetite, strength, and emotional well-being. Studies show that 40–80% of cancer patients experience malnutrition due to the physical and metabolic effects of the disease and its treatment. If left unaddressed, these nutritional challenges can adversely affect treatment outcomes and increase the risk of complications, including morbidity and mortality.
Eating healthy alone may not suffice. A personalised cancer diet is essential to help manage side effects, strengthen immunity, and maintain energy levels throughout treatment and recovery. Whether you're undergoing Chemotherapy, Radiation, or recovering post-surgery, understanding the right foods to eat is a crucial part of your journey.
Synopsis
Cancer and Nutrition: Why Your Diet Matters More Than Ever
During cancer treatment, your body requires more protein and calories to maintain strength and support recovery. Cancer and nutrition must go hand-in-hand, as proper nutrition plays a vital role in helping the body fight the disease.
In addition, consuming adequate nutrients can help:
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Manage treatment-related side effects, such as fatigue, infections, and nausea
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Maintain muscle mass
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Supports immune function
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Reduce inflammation
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Improve treatment tolerance
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Speed up recovery
Every person’s needs may vary based on the type and stage of cancer, the treatment protocol, and overall health. A certified dietician can help in developing a personalised cancer diet plan.
The Impact of Cancer Treatment on Nutrition and Appetite
Cancer and its treatment cause side effects that affect your body’s capacity to eat enough food or absorb nutrients from it. Some types of cancer cause more problems with eating, such as cancer of the stomach, liver, head and neck, and oesophagus. Moreover, if cancer nutrition is not maintained, it can lead to malnutrition, called cancer cachexia. This condition causes weight loss, weakness, and muscle loss.
What to Eat During Cancer Treatment?
Cancer treatment is generally long and challenging. There may be some good days and some difficult ones, but the ultimate goal should be to provide the right cancer nutrition to support the body.
Here’s what a well-balanced cancer diet plan should include:
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Healthy proteins: Cancer patients need more protein to keep their bodies strong, repair tissue damage caused by cancer and its treatment, and boost the immune system. Sources include eggs, lean meats, chicken, fish, tofu, legumes, beans, lentils, peas, nuts, seeds, cheese, yoghurt, and milk.
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Whole grains: Carbohydrates provide energy and essential fibre. Add oats, whole wheat bread, quinoa, and brown rice to your diet. Avoid sugary cereals and highly refined carbs.
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Fruits and vegetables: According to the National Cancer Institute, 2½ cups of fruits and 1–4 cups of vegetables are recommended daily for optimal cancer nutrition. Include citrus fruits (such as oranges and grapefruits) and colourful vegetables like berries, carrots, broccoli, and spinach.
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Healthy fats: Adding healthy calories is crucial during treatment. Include calorie-dense foods such as flax seeds, fatty fish like salmon, olive oil, and avocados to meet your body's energy needs.
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Hydrating liquids: Cancer treatment and its side effects can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of fluids as part of your cancer diet. These include water, herbal teas, milk, and clear soups. Limit sugary and caffeinated drinks.
How Can a Cancer Diet Help Manage Treatment Side Effects?
A well-balanced cancer diet and simple dietary changes can help you manage side effects during Chemotherapy, Radiation therapy, Immunotherapy, or Surgery.
The common side effects include
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Nausea and vomiting: Eat small, frequent meals and include anti-nausea foods like ginger, citrus, and peppermint. Avoid spicy, greasy, or strong-smelling foods that may worsen symptoms.
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Appetite loss: Schedule regular, small, and nutritious meals or snacks, even if you're not feeling hungry. Include nutrient-dense options like smoothies, protein shakes, nut butters, and full-fat dairy.
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Mouth sores or difficulty swallowing: Choose soft and moist foods such as oatmeal, soups, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs. Avoid acidic, spicy, or rough-textured foods that can irritate the mouth.
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Diarrhoea: Consume foods and drinks rich in potassium and sodium, such as bananas, natural fruit juices, broths, and electrolyte-rich fluids.
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Constipation: Drink plenty of water and include high-fibre foods like vegetables, fruits with skin, whole grains, and legumes.
What to Eat After Cancer Treatment?
Recovery after cancer treatment, including surgery, is a gradual process, and nutrition plays a crucial role during this time. A post-treatment cancer diet should focus on foods that help restore strength and immunity, support tissue healing, and reduce the risk of recurrence. A balanced cancer diet plan should include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, lean proteins, antioxidant-rich foods, and probiotics.
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all cancer diet, but good nutrition is essential to improve quality of life, enhance recovery, and promote long-term survivorship. Nutritional needs vary among patients based on their body mass index (BMI), type and stage of cancer, treatment received, and overall lifestyle. Avoid relying on fad diets or unverified supplements. Instead, choose the right foods and consult a registered dietitian and experienced oncologist at Manipal Hospitals, Broadway, for a personalised cancer nutrition plan.
FAQ's
The body’s immune system is weak during cancer; thus, avoid foods that can carry the risk of foodborne illnesses. These include:
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Raw or undercooked fish
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Soft-cooked eggs
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Unpasteurised cheese and dairy products
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Unwashed fruits or vegetables
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Highly processed foods
There are no such things as cancer-fighting foods, but some foods contain natural components like antioxidants that can reduce the risk of cancer and can help in its treatment. These include vegetables, seeds, nuts, whole grains, fruits, and beans. They should also be added to a cancer diet.
Yes, many cancer survivors can live a normal and fulfilling life. However, some may continue to experience emotional or physical challenges after treatment. Regular follow-ups, routine monitoring, and maintaining a nutritious cancer diet are essential to improve recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Cancer cannot be completely avoided; you can just reduce the risk by adopting some lifestyle changes. These include:
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Eat a healthy diet
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Limit alcohol intake
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Be physically active
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Avoid overexposure to the sun
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Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
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Take vaccinations like hepatitis B and HPV
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Undergo regular cancer screening
You can schedule an appointment with our cancer care expert at Manipal Hospitals, Broadway, by contacting us or visiting our website.
Visit: https://www.manipalhospitals.com/broadway/
Contact no: 033 6907 0001
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