Nutrition Recommendations For Cancer Patients

Dietary recommendations for cancer patients can vary depending on the type, stage and type of treatment. In general, however, a healthy diet can help fight cancer. In general, a Mediterranean-type diet may be suitable for cancer patients. Healthy carbohydrates, protein sources, milk and dairy products, fruits and vegetables should be consumed in a balanced way.

Some Nutrition Tips for Cancer Patients

• Vegetables and fruits: Colorful vegetables and fruits are rich in antioxidants, fiber and other nutrients that fight cancer. Especially green leafy vegetables, broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, red peppers, strawberries and berries.  If it is difficult to consume fruits whole, they can also be consumed in the form of puree.
• Whole grains: Whole grains are rich in fiber, protein and other nutrients. Whole grain foods such as whole wheat, siyez, rye flour bread, oatmeal, brown rice and whole wheat pasta should be consumed.
• Protein: Protein sources such as fish, chicken, turkey, turkey, beef, beans, chickpeas and other legumes, eggs and dairy products should be consumed. Quality protein sources should be included in every meal. Fats Healthy fats can help fight cancer. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as olive oil, canola oil, avocados and salmon.
• Water: Drinking enough water is very important. Water helps the body flush out toxins and keep cells healthy. In addition, it is very important to consume plenty of water to remove the drugs taken during cancer treatment from the body as soon as possible. Excessively calcareous water should be avoided.
• Vitamin and mineral supplements: Some cancer treatments can cause vitamin and mineral deficiencies in the body. In this case, it may be useful to take supplements as recommended by your doctor.

Foods That Should Not Be Consumed by Cancer Patients

• Sugar and processed foods: Sugar and processed foods can cause inflammation that can lead to cancer. Therefore, it is important to eat as little processed foods, sugary drinks, fast food and convenience foods as possible.
• Alcohol: Alcohol can increase the risk of cancer. Therefore, it is important to reduce alcohol consumption as much as possible or stop drinking altogether.
• Acidic foods and drinks: Since patients may develop sensitivity in their mouths due to the medications they are taking, foods with high acid levels such as lemons, tomatoes and foods with intense bitterness should not be consumed. Rigid foods should not be preferred as swallowing difficulties may also occur.In addition, grapefruit, pomegranate and kiwi should be avoided as they may alter the effect of chemotherapy drugs.

In addition to a healthy diet, exercise should be included in the patient's program. Walks of at least 30 minutes should be taken 3-4 days a week. In cancer treatment, especially in intensive treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, patients are likely to experience side effects such as fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite and decreased physical activity. Regular physical activity will reduce these side effects.

Since medication and radiotherapy may cause loss of appetite, a program can be created according to a small and frequent diet. In cases where there is no appetite, liquid foods such as freshly squeezed fruit juices, milk, soups or favorite foods can be preferred.

Loss of appetite in cancer treatment

Loss of appetite during cancer treatment is a common side effect. Around 50% of cancer patients may experience loss of appetite during treatment. Different cancer treatment methods, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery or hormonal therapy, can cause side effects such as loss of appetite.

Loss of appetite can lead to the body not getting enough nutrients, which can lead to weight loss. Cancer patients can be weakened by weight loss and malnutrition, and their response to treatment can also be negatively affected. It is therefore very important for patients undergoing cancer treatment to manage anorexia and maintain adequate nutritional intake.

To manage anorexia, patients undergoing cancer treatment are advised to consider the following recommendations:

• Eat small and frequent meals: It may be easier to eat small but frequent meals instead of heavy meals.
• Choose foods that are soft and easily chewed: This can make eating easier and more comfortable.
• Drink plenty of fluids: Liquid foods can help provide the nutrients the body needs. Nutritious drinks such as hot soups and fruit juices can increase appetite.
• Talk to your doctor: If you are not eating enough due to a lack of appetite, be sure to talk to your doctor to see if he or she can recommend supplements or nutritional supplements.

In conclusion, loss of appetite during cancer treatment is a normal side effect. Getting enough nutrients can help patients maintain body resistance and respond better to treatment.

Remember that every cancer patient's needs are different and it is important to consult your doctor about your eating patterns.