Nutrition counseling for cancer recovery
When facing cancer, your body’s nutritional needs are unique and ever-changing. Standard dietary guidelines often fall short of addressing the challenges that come with treatment. That’s why personalized nutrition counseling can make a significant difference in your recovery journey. The foods you eat not only fuel your body but also play a vital role in increasing your strength, boosting your immune system, and helping you adapt to the side effects of cancer treatments.
Our nutrition experts understand that every patient’s journey is different. Whether you're navigating chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery, we’re here to provide tailored guidance that helps you stay strong, feel more energized and heal more effectively. With the right nutritional plan, you can enhance your body's resilience and recovery while regaining control over your health.
Quick Nutrition Tips During Cancer Treatment
Eating can be challenging during cancer treatment due to nausea or fatigue. These tips can help you navigate mealtimes and ensure you're getting the nutrition your body needs:
1. Build Strength and Immunity
- Gradually transition to a protein-rich diet with higher-calorie foods such as milk and cooked eggs.
- Avoid high-fiber foods if you're experiencing diarrhea or a sore mouth, as these can aggravate symptoms.
2. Plan Ahead
- Stock your pantry and freezer with favorite foods to reduce shopping trips. Include easy-to-eat options that are gentle on your stomach.
- Keep quick-prep foods on hand, such as pudding, peanut butter, tuna and eggs.
- Cook meals in advance and freeze them in individual portions for convenience.
3. Seek Support
- Enlist help from friends or family for cooking and shopping to conserve your energy.
- Talk to a registered dietitian to get personalized meal plans and ideas to ease side effects.
4. Stay Flexible
- Stick with one or two foods that you can tolerate and expand your diet as you feel better.
- Consider a liquid meal replacement for extra calories and protein when solid foods are unappealing.
5. Prioritize Hydration
- Drinking plenty of fluids, especially on days when eating feels difficult.
- Carry a water bottle to encourage consistent hydration throughout the day.
Additional Nutrition Resources
Although some cancer patients prefer to stick to a few foods they know they enjoy and won’t make them sick, many people prefer to have a rotation of dishes during their treatment. The American Cancer Society has great resources for cancer patients including a library of delicious healthy recipes.
Get expert nutrition advice for cancer patients
At the LCRP you can make an appointment with a dedicated oncology dietitian to discuss your dietary concerns. They can offer meal plans and healthy diet counseling if you are having problems with weight loss or gain, loss of appetite, elimination, fatigue, mouth sores, etc. due to the cancer or cancer treatments. The dietitian can also work with you and your family on a prevention plan to decrease the risk of cancer. Call 912-819-6893 to make an appointment.
Discover how nutrition counseling can empower you to take an active role in your care. Let’s create a plan that meets your specific needs and helps you thrive throughout treatment and beyond.