Simple sustenance

Healthy eating during cancer treatment can be extremely challenging. Even with the knowledge that a healthy, balanced and varied diet is essential to help your body cope with the stress of treatment, there may be days that you just don’t feel like eating.
Words: Jacquie Dale, Rena Fausett and Anna Shepherd

Whole-grain foods
Refined foods have a lower vitamin and mineral content and include white flour, pastries, biscuits, sugary cereals, and cakes. Choose whole-grain flours, cereals and baked products, especially if your overall food intake is already reduced, as these foods are more nutrient dense.

Hydration
During chemotherapy you need to drink plenty of fluids to maintain kidney function and help prevent urinary problems. Dehydration may make you feel tired or nauseous, so aim to drink plenty of water every day.

Antioxidants
Antioxidants are important for health and we need more of them as we age, or when our body is experiencing free radical damage. Antioxidants are substances in food that help to slow down oxidative damage to cells. During chemotherapy you should not take antioxidant supplement tablets, e.g. multivitamins, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, as they may interact with your treatment. Instead, you should eat a wide range of colourful fruit and vegetables from fresh, frozen, tinned and dried sources to boost your antioxidant intake. Food forms of antioxidants contain safe levels of these vital nutrients.

Sugar
Some steroids used in cancer treatments can increase blood sugar levels. Try to avoid eating or drinking too many high sugar foods low in nutrients during your treatment, e.g. soft drinks and lollies. Better choices where sugar occurs naturally include fruit or fruit toast.

Protein
Protein is an essential part of your diet, but if you are experiencing a sore mouth or taste changes, eating adequate protein may be difficult. Try to utilise all sources of protein including meat, chicken, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts and legumes. Try soft cooking methods, including sauces and gravies, or making fruit smoothies/milkshakes, to help you to meet you protein needs.

What about Organic?
A major study was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition this year stating that organic food has no nutritional or health benefits over conventionally produced food. Some people prefer organic produce and it is your choice. All fresh fruit and vegetables should be washed thoroughly before eating, especially if your immune system is reduced during chemo.

Coping with treatment is a stressful time for the whole family. Every day tasks like food shopping and cooking can be tiring for some people. It is OK to accept help from friends and relatives with these tasks. Depending on how the treatment makes you feel you may find eating well difficult to achieve overnight. Just take one day at a time and ask for help as needed.
Information contained in this article is a general guideline only. Please discuss your individual needs with your dietitian or doctor.