Nutrition during chemotherapy

During treatment, it is important to eat healthily. People who eat healthily cope better with side effects and fight infections faster. In addition, their bodies rebuild healthy tissue faster.

Healthy eating involves eating a well-balanced diet that contains all the necessary nutrients. 
Healthy eating also involves eating a diet with enough calories to maintain weight and, most importantly, a diet high in protein to build and repair skin, hair, muscles and internal organs.

You may also need to drink more fluids to protect your bladder and kidneys during treatment.

I DON'T WANT TO EAT

Even when you know how important it is to eat healthy, sometimes you just don't feel like eating. This may be due to side effects such as nausea or mouth and throat problems that make eating difficult. You may also lose your appetite when you feel tired or when you experience low mood or depression.

If poor appetite is your problem, try one of the following tips:

  • Eat smaller meals or snacks whenever you want.
  • Enrich your diet by trying new products and recipes.
  • When possible, go for a walk before a meal to increase the feeling of hunger.
  • Try changing the times and way you eat meals.
  • Eat with family or friends. If you eat alone, listen to the radio or watch TV.
  • If you live alone, it may be worth organizing your own meals.

CAN I CONSUME ALCOHOLIC DRINKS DURING CHEMOTHERAPY?

Small amounts of alcohol can help you relax and increase your appetite. On the other hand, alcohol may react with some medications, reducing their effectiveness or worsening side effects. For this reason, some people need to drink less alcohol or even give up alcohol completely during chemotherapy. Check with your doctor whether you can drink beer, wine or other alcoholic beverages during treatment.

SHOULD I TAKE VITAMINS OR MINERALS WHEN TAKING CHEMISTRY?

There is no clear answer to this question, but one thing is certain - no diet can "cure" cancer and taking additional vitamins or minerals should not be considered a substitute for medical care. Some people benefit from taking vitamins and minerals during treatment. Other people do not benefit from this and may even have a negative impact on them. Do not take any preparations without your doctor's consent.

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Source: https://faqrak.pl/expert-question/show/odzywianie-podczas-chemioterapia