OncoCare
When it comes to cancer, nutrition is one of the most important factors in the overall health of a patient. This is because diet and nutrition play a vital role in the recovery process and can be especially beneficial during chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and follow-up visits.
Unfortunately, many patients with cancer are uncertain about what type of nutrition they should be receiving due to conflicting information from well-meaning family and friends as well as from the internet. To help clear up some of this confusion, let's break down why nutrition is so important for cancer patients and identify key nutrients from their diet that are essential for their health.
But first, why is nutrition an aspect that cannot be overlooked for patients undergoing cancer treatment?
Cancer treatments, while essential for targeting malignant cells, unfortunately often impact healthy cells too. This can lead to various side effects that may potentially complicate a patient’s ability to eat and absorb nutrients effectively, emphasising the importance of good nutrition during this critical time. Side effects from treatments like chemotherapy can also disrupt normal eating patterns.
Common issues include:
Coping with some of the aforementioned side effects is a significant challenge during cancer treatment, but strategic nutritional choices can help mitigate these effects.
For instance, certain practical dietary tips can help with managing the common side effects that patients often encounter. Some of these include:
Each side effect may necessitate specific dietary adjustments, so it's beneficial to discuss these strategies with a healthcare provider or dietitian who can tailor advice to your unique needs.
Nutrition is an extremely crucial factor when it comes to fighting cancer. A well-balanced diet, rich in essential vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, C, D, and E, zinc, calcium, selenium, and magnesium, can support the body during this challenging time by:
There are several different types of nutrients that are particularly beneficial for cancer patients. For example, protein helps rebuild cells damaged by radiation or chemotherapy, while omega-3 fatty acids combat inflammation caused by tumours. Vitamins A and C boost immunity while zinc helps protect against infection; magnesium aids in relaxation, which can reduce stress levels; iron helps prevent anaemia; and antioxidants such as beta carotene fight free radicals that damage cells.
Proteins are essential for cell regeneration and growth, making them an incredibly important part of any cancer patient’s diet. Protein can be found in foods like lean meats, eggs, dairy products and legumes. For those who have difficulty chewing or swallowing, protein shakes and other supplements may be a good option.
Local dishes like sliced fish bee hoon soup provide a substantial amount of protein, with approximately 21.1g per serving. In addition to protein, this dish offers a balance of other essential nutrients, including 8.8g of total fat, 55.2g of carbohydrates, and 3.3g of dietary fibre, making it a nutritious option.
Fat is an important source of energy for cancer patients going through chemotherapy. Fats also provide essential fatty acids that help maintain cell integrity and immunity and reduce inflammation in the body. Healthy sources of fat include avocados, nuts, seeds, and oily fish like salmon and mackerel.
Local dishes can also contribute to healthy fat intake. For instance, Mee Soto contains 13g of fat per serving, including 5.4g of saturated fat and 38mg of cholesterol. While it's important to be mindful of saturated fat intake, Mee Soto can be a part of a balanced diet.
Carbohydrates provide energy for cells throughout the body, as well as vitamins and minerals that are crucial for good health. Whole grains such as oats or quinoa are excellent sources of carbohydrates, along with fruits, vegetables, and legumes like beans or lentils. All these foods should be included in a cancer patient’s diet while they undergo chemotherapy or other treatments.
For instance, Thunder Tea Rice is a nutritious option, providing a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and fibre. A typical serving contains approximately 430 calories, 10g of fat, 42g of carbohydrates, 18g of protein, and 5g of fibre.
When considering nutrition during cancer treatment, supplements often come to mind as well. But are they truly necessary?
Cancer treatment can, no doubt, be taxing on the body, sometimes leading to specific nutritional deficiencies that diet alone might not address. For instance, Vitamin D is a common deficiency among cancer patients, crucial for immune strength, reducing fatigue, and supporting bone health—especially critical for those on steroids, as they face higher risks of bone density loss. In some cases, cancer or its treatment can also hinder the body's ability to absorb nutrients effectively from food. In such situations, your doctor might recommend a multivitamin and mineral supplement to help meet your nutritional needs.
While it can be tempting to self-treat with over-the-counter supplements, it's crucial to consult with your oncologist before incorporating any supplements into your regimen, especially those purchased without a prescription. They can help ensure that any supplements you consider are safe and effective in conjunction with your cancer therapy.
Aside from understanding the best foods for cancer patients, it's equally important to know how to handle and prepare these foods safely. This is especially so since cancer treatments may weaken your immune system, increasing your susceptibility to foodborne illnesses.
To minimise this risk, it is essential to maintain meticulous food hygiene practices:
It’s also important to note that certain foods should be avoided completely by people undergoing treatment for cancer. These include:
All these items should be eliminated from a patient’s diet as they can inhibit recovery time and lead to further health complications down the road.
Of course, the specific foods to avoid can also depend on the type of cancer and its treatment.
For instance, individuals with breast cancer may need to limit highly processed foods and refined grains, as these have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Those with prostate cancer might be advised to reduce their intake of processed meats, such as ham and bacon, while individuals with stomach cancer may need to limit foods with natural laxatives like prunes, figs and caffeinated foods.
Always check with your oncologist or dietician for personalised advice on what foods to avoid during your cancer treatment.
When undergoing radiotherapy, managing your diet is key to minimising discomfort and potential side effects.
Consider these foods to avoid to make your treatment journey smoother:
During chemotherapy, being mindful of what to avoid can significantly impact your well-being, too. Some of the foods that are not considered good for chemo patients include:
From the above, it is clear that when it comes to coping with cancer, having good nutrition is essential. The best way to go about this is by consulting with your doctor or a registered dietitian who specialises in oncology nutrition. They will be able to provide you with recommendations on which foods you should eat (and avoid) based on your specific needs—ensuring that your body has all the necessary nutrients needed for recovery.
At OncoCare Cancer Centre in Singapore, we provide quality care and support for our patients who are undergoing cancer treatment. We partner with you at every step of your journey, and this includes advice on the optimal nutrition you’ll need. Make an appointment to speak to one of our specialists today, and for more information on the importance of your diet during this phase, read our guide on How Diet and Food Choices Can Influence Cancer Risks.
“Expert knowledge means better care for cancer”
Written by:
Dr Angela Pang
MBBS (Singapore)
Grad Dip (GRM)
MRCP (UK)
M Med (Internal Med)
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