Diet and Nutrition

What and how you eat and drink is an important part of your cancer treatment.  Nutrition recommendations for cancer patients can be quite different from nutrition recommendations for healthy people because they are designed to build up strength and endurance and help the patient withstand the effects of cancer treatment.

Typically, nutrition recommendations for cancer patients focuses on helping the patient eat adequate amounts of  higher calorie foods. Recommendations might also suggest that a patient eat more or less of certain foods (for example high fiber) because these foods can aggravate problems such as diarrhea, constipation or a sore mouth.

The Cancer Center at Presbyterian employs a Registered Dietitian to consult with patients and design programs that are right for their treatment.  For more information on changes in appetite, weight management, nutritional supplements during treatment or if you have any special dietary requirements, talk to your doctor.

Helpful hints about eating and drinking during cancer treatment:

• Try to eat meals and snacks with sufficient protein and calories; they will help you keep up your strength, prevent body tissues from breaking down, and rebuild tissues that may be affected from your disease or your treatment.
• Many people find their appetite is better in the morning. Take advantage of this and eat more then. Consider having your main meal of the day early, and have a light meal or liquid meal replacements later in the day.
• If you don't feel well and can eat only a few things, stick with them until you are able to eat other foods. Try liquid meal replacements for extra calories and protein.
• On those days when you can't eat at all, don't worry about it. Do what you can to make yourself feel better. Get back to eating as soon as you can, and let your doctor know if this doesn't get better within a couple of days.
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially on those days when you don't feel like eating. Water is essential to your body's proper functioning, so getting enough fluids will ensure that your body has the water it needs – especially while you are in treatment.
To schedule a personal appointment with the nutritionist, please call (505) 559-6100.