Eating Well During Chemotherapy: Tips for Managing Treatment Side Effects

Dec 7

Chemotherapy can take a toll on your body, affecting your appetite, taste, and overall ability to stay well-nourished. From nausea to fatigue and changes in bowel habits, these symptoms can make eating a challenge. However, with a few practical strategies, you can support your health, immune system, and energy levels during treatment.

Here’s a guide to managing common chemotherapy side effects through nutrition, based on advice from Stacy Kennedy, a nutrition specialist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

1. Managing Taste Changes

During chemotherapy, food may not taste the same, or you may lose your sense of taste altogether. Here are some tips to make eating more enjoyable:

Try Tart or Sour Flavors: Foods like pomegranate, ginger, lemon, and apples can help enhance flavor and stimulate your taste buds.
Adjust for Mouth Sores: If you have mouth sores, tart flavors might cause discomfort. Opt for soothing options like baked sweet potatoes or other soft, mild foods.

2. Staying Hydrated

Hydration is critical during treatment, but water may not always taste appealing.

Naturally Flavor Water: Add slices of fruit like lemon, cucumber, or berries to improve taste and boost immune-supporting phytonutrients.
Ginger and Lemon Tea: Ginger and lemon have natural anti-nausea properties and make for a comforting, hydrating drink.

3. Eating Smaller, Frequent Meals

Chemotherapy often reduces appetite, and large portions can feel overwhelming.

Use Smaller Plates: Serving smaller portions on smaller plates can make meals less daunting.
Frequent Meals: Aim to eat small, frequent meals throughout the day to maintain energy and support digestion.

4. Managing Nausea

Nausea is a common side effect, but certain foods and habits can help.

Incorporate Ginger: Ginger has been shown to alleviate nausea; try it in tea, smoothies, or even as a seasoning in meals.
Add Protein: Protein can help reduce nausea and combat fatigue. Choose lean sources like chicken, fish, tofu, or plant-based proteins.

5. Supporting Healthy Digestion

Chemotherapy can cause bowel changes, such as constipation or diarrhea. Here’s how to manage both:

For Constipation: A plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can promote regularity. Foods like prunes, pears, and high-fiber cereals are especially helpful.
For Diarrhea: If you’re experiencing diarrhea, some fruits and vegetables may be hard to digest. Consider blending them into smoothies or juices for easier consumption.

6. Make Meals Appealing

When your appetite is low, presentation and variety can make a difference.

Colorful Foods: A colorful plate of fruits and vegetables can make meals visually appealing and encourage eating.
Light Textures: Opt for light, easily digestible meals like soups, smoothies, and soft-cooked grains.

7. Boosting Energy

Fatigue is another common challenge during chemotherapy. Maintaining a balanced diet with sufficient protein and healthy carbohydrates can help keep energy levels stable.

Energy-Boosting Foods: Include foods like nuts, seeds, avocados, and whole grains to provide sustained energy.

Key Takeaways

Eating well during chemotherapy may require some adjustments, but with small, consistent changes, you can manage symptoms and maintain good nutrition.

Prioritize hydration with naturally flavored water or herbal teas.
Eat small, frequent meals to stay nourished and maintain energy.
Adjust your diet based on how you’re feeling, focusing on foods that are easy to eat and digest.
Incorporate immune-boosting foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

For more recipes, tips, and support, consult your healthcare team or explore resources like Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s website and free app. Taking proactive steps in your nutrition can help you feel stronger and more in control during your treatment journey.

For more information on how HuMOLYTE can support your gut health during chemotherapy, visit our product page or consult your health care provider.

This blog was reviewed by Dr. Sourabh Kharait.

This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan, hydration strategies, or diet. The information provided here is based on general insights and may not apply to individual circumstances.

Rich Foreman