What you put into your body in the way of cancer nutrition determines what you get out of it.

That’s why we offer a dietitian with special training in working with patients with cancer who is dedicated to our cancer treatment program, focusing on a comprehensive cancer diet plan.

Cancer diet before treatment

Before treatment even begins, you can focus on a healthy cancer diet plan.

Start reaching out to friends and family who can drop off healthy, nutritious meals while you’re in treatment. Stock your fridge and pantry with easy-to-make meals that align with nutrition for cancer patients, nourishing your body and improving your mood.

Remember, during treatment, you may feel too tired or sick to prepare your own meals. Applesauce, microwaveable brown rice, nuts, prepared vegetables, whole grains, yogurt and more are healthy options to keep on hand before and during treatment.

Cancer diet during treatment

Cancer treatment can sap your strength. It’s vital to nourish your body with foods that help improve your mood and supply you with the nutrients you need, following a cancer diet plan.

Whenever possible, supplement your diet with high-protein foods, like eggs, lean meats, beans and dairy, including cheeses, milk and yogurt.

Aim for at least 2.5 cups of fruits and vegetables each day. Dark green and deep yellow vegetables offer a load of nutrients, as do citrus fruits and other colorful foods. Wash raw produce well before eating.

You should also continue drinking plenty of fluids each day, especially water, as part of a comprehensive nutrition for cancer patients.

Foods to manage side effects

Cancer treatment can sap your appetite, making it difficult to get the nutrients you need to sustain your health. Here are some ways to cope with the side effects of treatment:

• Nausea – Foods that have strong smells, are spicy or greasy can become unappealing. Simple, dry foods like crackers, toast and more help. So do clear, nourishing liquids like sports drinks, chicken or beef broth and simple water.
• Irritation of the mouth or throat – Some treatments can cause irritation and pain in your mouth or throat. Avoid spicy, acidic foods, as well as rough or scratchy foods. Don’t eat anything too hot or too cold, and use a straw for soups, broths or drinks. Ginger is also a time-tested way to relieve nausea.
• Digestive problems – Cancer treatment can cause diarrhea and constipation. If you experience diarrhea, it’s vital to stay hydrated: drink lots of liquids — especially water — and reduce high-fiber foods such as whole grains and vegetables. High-fiber foods, plenty of fluids and dietary supplements can aid constipation.
• Changes in taste – Cancer treatment can impact the way food tastes. Even some of your favorite foods may lose their luster. This is the time to open your tastes to new foods. You may find a new appreciation for tart or sour flavors like pomegranates or ginger, as well as spices like mint, oregano or rosemary.

Remember, there is no one diet or food that can protect you from cancer or “cure” cancer — cancer prevention and treatment involves a complete, holistic approach to your health, incorporating nutrition for cancer patients.

Diet and Nutrition Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top 5 cancer fighting foods?
Foods such as berries, leafy greens, nuts, turmeric and garlic are renowned for their cancer-fighting properties.

What starves out cancer cells?
Certain diets, like the ketogenic diet, may help starve cancer cells by depriving them of glucose.

What is the 3-3-3 rule diet?
This rule suggests consuming balanced portions of protein, carbohydrates and fats in a 3:3:3 ratio to maintain overall health.

What is the 3 2 1 rule for cancer?
This rule refers to eating three portions of fruits and vegetables, two portions of whole grains, and one portion of lean protein daily.

What foods are known to enhance the immune system?
Foods rich in vitamins C and E, like citrus fruits, almonds and spinach, are known to boost the immune system.