“Food is a big part of people’s lives — family time, culture and holidays,” says Debbie Kurzrock, R.D., a Mills-Peninsula registered dietitian who works in Radiation Oncology at the Dorothy E. Schneider Cancer Center in San Mateo.
Debbie Kurzrock, R.D.
“So it’s really upsetting when a person is diagnosed with cancer and suddenly they can’t eat the way they did before,” she says.
Often cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, negatively affect people’s sense of taste. Other side effects can include fatigue, nausea, difficulty swallowing or diarrhea.
“I meet with people who are going through cancer treatment and I make suggestions to help bolster nutrition or cope with loss of appetite,” Kurzrock says.
“When people are in cancer treatment, they are destroying their cells,” she explains. “So it’s very important they get the right nutrients to rebuild them.”
Tips for Better Eating During Cancer Treatment
- If you are nauseous and can’t eat, focus on staying hydrated. Sip on broth or drink juice
- Don’t stress if you have a bad day. Make up for it by adding more calories and protein on days you feel better
- Protein needs are higher for people receiving cancer treatment. Pack in more protein with beans, fish, almond butter or cheese
- Eat the rainbow: Get cancer-fighting antioxidants from colorful fruits and veggies such as carrots, tomatoes, grapefruit and spinach
- Combat loss of appetite by eating smaller, more frequent snacks throughout the day
- If hot food smells trigger nausea, try a fruit and yogurt smoothie
Debbie Kurzrock, R.D., a Mills-Peninsula registered dietitian who works in Radiation Oncology at the Dorothy E. Schneider Cancer Center in San Mateo, contributed to this blog post.
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