Nutrients tips for cancer patients

 

Cancer is a life- threatening disease for most of the individuals. There are many types of cancer that affect various organs. Its treatment like chemotherapy and radiation will target to kill cancer cells and the patient’s appetite too. Some of the other common sides effects of cancer treatment include, change in taste, sensitivity to smell, nausea, dry mouth, weight loss and mouth sore.

In this article, 3MEDS, the best online pharmacy store in India, discusses some healthy and nutritious diet that can be followed by cancer patients.

Things to do to maintain a good and healthy diet

Being foodie

1.      Consume small meals frequently than having a big meal together

2.      Store healthy snacks and keep it handy to have whenever hunger strikes. Snack on sugar-free hard candy, tart foods, and popsicles or ice chips.

3.      Take items that are high-calorie and high-protein foods.

4.      Can enjoy larger meals once in a while, if you feel so.

5.      Eat white meats like chicken and turkey.

6.      Incorporate other proteins like eggs, tofu, peanut butter, ice cream, yogurt to smoothies and beans.

7.      Before cooking food, marinate them.

8.      Include seasonal foods in your diet with tart fruits like lemon and lime, along with herbs and spices.

9.      Try sweet foods to counteract bitter, salty or acidic tastes.

10.  To make smells more tolerable, eat foods cold or at room temperature.

11.  When you feel up to eating, choose plain foods like bread, crackers and fruit.

12.  Add gravy or other sauces to food.

13.  Stick to four to six small meals a day, and avoid skipping meals whenever possible.

14.  Eat soft, chopped foods like soups, mashed potatoes, egg salad, scrambled eggs and oatmeal.

15.  Eat more dairy products like whole milk, ice cream and dry milk powder.

16.  Add variety to your diet. Can try ancient grains like quinoa, spelt, farro and buckwheat.

17.  Vitamin C rich items like citrus fruits, strawberries, guava, broccoli, cantaloupe, kale, kiwi, papaya, tomatoes or red and yellow bell peppers, should be consumed.

One more drink please!

1.      Don’t have beverages or any type of fluids before and during meals. As, it will fill up on the foods you’re eating and not liquids you’re drinking.

2.      Protein shakes are a good option as drinking liquids that contain a good amount of calories and other nutrients are a nutritious choice.

3.      Consume more of juice, broth, ginger ale or other clear liquids.

4.      Sip on water regularly throughout the day.

5.      Avoid all alcohol. Even alcohol-based mouthwashes.

6.      Turn to liquid supplements and shakes as meal replacements.

7.      Incorporate liquid supplements to add calories and nutrients to your diet. There are many options on the market in a host of flavors.

Other remedial

1.      To keep air circulating throughout eating areas, keep windows open and use fans, if possible.

2.      Quit smoking

3.      Get enough of sleep of 6 to 8 hours each might.

4.      Exercise to eliminate toxins and reduce stress. Can take a walk in the neighbourhood or practise yoga, to manage anxiety and stress.

Safety measures

1.      Keep a practise of washing hands before and while preparing food

2.      Wash vegetables and fruits properly before consumption

3.      Preferably store meat and fish on the bottom shelf of refrigerator

4.      Don’t thaw food on the counter or under warm running water

5.      Don’t consume half cooked or raw food items. Always eat fully cooked meals

6.      Avoid eating or drinking unpasteurized food items.

7.      Check the expiry dates and other details before making a purchase.

8.      Nonporous containers like glass, cans and unopened plastic bags must be washed with soapy water or wiped thoroughly with disinfectant, before putting it in refrigerator or cabinet.

9.      Sanitise surfaces like countertops, handles, doors, cabinets, sinks and kitchen appliances.

Avoid stepping out your homes and order your medications from any online chemist shop.

Ending note

Fighting with cancer is definitely a great deal. They must maintain their food choices with good amount of vitamins and minerals. As, it will impact on cancer patient’s immune system, energy levels and weight management during treatment. Cancer patients must follow nutrition tips and other guidance during and after the course of treatment.