News Archives

Back to News Archives

Proactive Nutrition - Eat Smart May 27, 2010

Proactive Nutrition Tips

A cancer diagnosis can be paralyzing.  Establishing and maintaining good nutrition prior to beginning treatment is critical.  Click on the above pdf to read wonderful tips on how to be proactive from our on-staff registered dietitian Kimberly.  The tips are also listed below.

It is Never too Soon to Think about Nutrition

A cancer diagnosis can be paralyzing news in every aspect of your life.  One area that should remain of utmost importance prior to beginning treatment is nutrition.  Nutrition status impacts strength, stamina, and the immune system all of which are vital to completing a treatment regimen as prescribed in a timely fashion for maximum benefit.  There are some cancer types where nutrition status becomes even more important such as cancer of the head and neck areas, lung, and colon.  It is common among these cancer types that weight loss has occurred prior to diagnosis.  Unexplained or disease induced weight loss is one of the signs of worsening nutrition status.  Here are some tips and suggestions to ensure that nutrition is on track before treatment begins:

• Eat at least 3 meals per day.  Even more preferable, 6 smaller meals including a source of complex carbohydrates, lean protein, and healthy fat at each one.
• Eat a wide variety of foods including many different colors of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and protein from animal and vegetable sources.
• Limit processed foods such as high sugar and high fat snack type foods.  These foods provide calories but are very short on the nutrients that the body needs. 
• Be mindful of beverages.  Water is best for improving hydration.  Soft drinks and other high sugar beverages are supplying calories without nutrients.
• If eating regular food is a challenge due to swallowing or chewing problems, begin a nutrition supplement such as Boost®, Ensure®, or Carnation® Instant Breakfast.  These supplements are designed to be a complete meal and can meet nutrition needs alone in place of regular foods when consumed in the proper amount.
• Keep in mind that there is a lot of nutrition information available on the internet that does not come from a credible source.  If something sounds questionable, eliminates healthy foods, or suggests expensive supplements consult a registered dietitian for the best nutrition advice and guidance.

Nutrition plays a vital role cancer treatment and recovery.  Begin working toward healthy eating and lifestyle habits today.

In This Section: