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Some of the best foods to eat during chemotherapy or other cancer treatments are plant-based proteins. They offer the highest levels of vitamins and minerals, Rajagopal says. This means eating lots of vegetables as well as beans, legumes, nuts and seeds. If you do eat animal proteins, choose lean options like chicken or fish. Healthy Fats
- Oatmeal. Oatmeal provides numerous nutrients that can help your body during chemo. It boasts ample amounts of carbs, protein, and antioxidants, as well as more healthy fats than most grains.
- Avocado. If your appetite is lacking, avocados can pack necessary calories and nutrients into your diet. This creamy, green fruit is particularly high in healthy monounsaturated fat, which can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol while raising HDL (good) cholesterol.
- Eggs. Fatigue is a common side effect of chemotherapy. Eggs may fight tiredness due to their generous supply of protein and fats — nearly 6 grams of protein and 4 grams of fat in a single medium-sized egg (44 grams) (9).
- Broth. Taste changes are normal during chemotherapy — and water is commonly said to taste different. In these instances, broth is a great alternative to keep you hydrated.
- Dry-cured or smoked meats. Products like dry-cured raw salami or smoked fish are preserved through drying, salting, and exposure to heat and smoke. While these processes can inhibit bacteria growth, they may not be as effective as high temperatures in killing all potentially harmful pathogens.
- Unpasteurized milk products. Pasteurization is the heat-based sterilization process used for many commercially packaged, sealed foods, including: dairy products.
- Open-case products and bulk-bin items. Salads and meats stored in deli coolers for the day may be kept cold, but they’re potentially exposed to pathogens every time the door opens for an employee.
- Unwashed fruits, sprouts, and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables can be an important part of getting nutrients during chemotherapy, but they should always be washed or cooked before consumption to avoid surface contaminants that may make you ill.
Feb 27, 2024 · Still, it’s important for chemotherapy patients to eat what they can when they can. And what they eat should be nutrient-dense in order to meet calorie, protein and other nutrient needs. Here are some tips for people receiving chemotherapy dealing with a loss of appetite: Set a time every several hours to eat a small meal or hearty snack.
Jul 30, 2021 · During this time, a person can prepare for eating while going through chemotherapy. It can be helpful to stock the freezer, refrigerator, and cupboards with healthy foods that a person enjoys.
Oct 3, 2023 · Staying hydrated is especially important during chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy to help flush out any toxins from the body. It can also help replace water your body may be losing due to treatment side effects, such as diarrhea or vomiting. “Water is always good, or you can opt for liquids rich in electrolytes,” says Ebrus.
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Oct 18, 2021 · Chemotherapy can affect how you tolerate certain foods, and it can negatively affect your nutrition. Getting the proper calories and nutrients, like vitamins and minerals, can help you feel better and recover faster. Each person is different and will have different nutritional needs during treatment. Read more about what foods provide the nutrients you may need during your chemo diet.
