**8. Sound nutrition during treatment**

primary oncologist. The following form, used by Maple Tree Cancer Alliance, is sent to the physician every 3-6 months, and is a simple way to keep the doctor abreast of the patient's

Nutritional guidance during cancer treatments is very important, since cancer treatments typically result in side effects that lead to eating problems. Such side effects include trouble swallowing, sore mouth, dry mouth, thick saliva, altered taste and smell, nausea and vomiting, decreased appetite and constipation. Nutritional interventions specific to these side effects have been shown to contribute shorter hospital stays, decreased healthcare costs, faster healing, increased tolerance to treatment duration and higher treatment dosages, as well as

A registered dietitian may provide nutritional counseling, develop meal plans, and monitor the body weight, caloric, and dietary needs of a person diagnosed with and being treated for cancer. Ideally, each individual would be given a personalized dietary plan according to their specific needs and goals. Dietary plans should be closely monitored and changed according to the client's changing nutritional health requirements throughout their battle with cancer.

Sound nutrition practices include eating a variety of foods that will give the body the nutrients needed to help fight cancer. Included in these nutrients are protein, fats, and carbohydrates,

Proteins are important for growth, immune system function, and building and repairing body tissue. When protein is lacking in the diet, the body breaks down its muscle, which lowers resistance to infection and makes it harder for the body to recover from illness. Good sources

Carbohydrates are a major source of energy for the body, giving it the energy it needs for activity and proper function. Most of all carbohydrates turn into glucose after it is digested. Glucose is used by the body to create adenosine triphosphate, the energy currency of the cells. Glucose can also be stored, in the form of glycogen, in the liver and skeletal muscle. During times of starvation or exercise, glycogen is broken down into glucose to be used to make energy. When selecting dietary sources of carbohydrates, it is important to choose foods that don't have a dramatic effect on blood sugar. This can be done by examining the glycemic index of

of protein include lean meats, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy, nuts, beans, peas, and lentils.

progress.

124 Updates on Cancer Treatment

**7. Nutrition guidelines during cancer**

decreased complications during their cancer treatment.

The purpose of nutritional guidance is to help the patient:

**•** Improve quality of life

**•** Improve eating habits

**•** Maintain a healthy weight **•** Improve treatment tolerance

**•** Manage treatment-related side effects

as well as water, vitamins, and minerals.

Sound nutrition practices are very important during cancer treatment to help the body maintain strength, prevent tissue break down, manage side effects, and maintain immunity. The healthier an individual's diet, the better they can tolerate treatments and the more effective cancer treatments are in their body.

In general, a plant-based diet is ideal. At least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables are recom‐ mended each day, in a variety of colors. Colorful fruits and vegetables contain phytochemicals, which have preventative or disease-protective properties. High-fat foods, especially those from animal sources, should be avoided, as well as salt-cured, smoked, and pickled foods. Small snacks may be ingested during the day, as caloric needs often increase during cancer treatment. It may be helpful to keep a variety of protein-rich snacks on hand, including yogurt, soup, cheese, and crackers.

It is also very important to ensure that the patient is getting enough fluids each day. These can be in the form of water, juices, or other clear liquids that are sipped throughout the day. Fluids are lost through vomiting or diarrhea, and may lead to dehydration if not replenished.

During treatment, there will most likely be days when side effects make eating difficult or undesirable. On those days, it might be helpful to eat several small snacks throughout the day, rather than three large meals. Liquid supplements or high-protein beverages might be helpful to increase calories. Also, the patient should not be limited to food choices. In other words, if they want to eat breakfast for dinner, or vice versa, it is okay. When eating is difficult, it is more important to get calories in so that the patient can maintain strength. Then, on days when appetite is good, the patient should be encouraged to eat as healthy as possible.
