Guide To The Foods To Ease Cancer Patients Though Cancer Treatment

Cancer is a devastating group of conditions involving damaged cells and cell mutations. It can affect many different parts of the body, and is named for where it originates. This includes the colon, bones, brain, skin, breasts, and kidneys. Cancer is a leading cause of death in the United States, second only to heart disease.

Every patient needs cancer treatment as soon as possible. This is so that they have the best chances of recovering from their condition. There are several common treatments for cancer out there. Examples include radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy for cancer. Some patients may also need experimental cancer treatment. Of course, natural remedies for cancer often mean supporting the body during traditional treatment. A patient may want acupuncture for cancer. However, cancer treatments can have harsh side effects. This can include severe nausea and vomiting. Thankfully, a healthy cancer diet can help ease patients through the treatment process.

Consume Bananas Daily

Most patients will not have much of an appetite during cancer treatment. Thus, it is a good idea for them to consume bananas daily. Bananas are easy to digest and will not upset their stomach. This is helpful for cancer patients experiencing nausea. They are also a relatively filling fruit that provides an energy boost. The texture of bananas is also great for cancer patients who have trouble swallowing.

In addition to being easy to eat, bananas are quite nutritious. For example, bananas have pectin, which is a fiber that is known to help relieve diarrhea. They also contain a significant amount of potassium, which helps replace the electrolytes lost due to cancer-related nausea and vomiting. With nutrients like manganese, vitamin C, and vitamin B6, health experts believe that regularly eating bananas minimizes colon cancer cell development. Individuals can eat them whole, blend them into smoothies, or make a fruit bowl to increase their nutrient intake.

Eat White Bread And Rice

Treatments like chemotherapy cause nausea, and eating white rice and bread allows cancer patients to keep food down. Both are quite soothing and easy to digest. Although whole grains are slightly healthier, they are usually harder on an individual's digestive system than refined grains. Eating bread and rice is also a great way to increase fiber intake. Cancer patients typically suffer from diarrhea and constipation. Eating foods with carbohydrates raises fiber, which regulates bowel movements. Speak to your oncologist about how much carbohydrates you need for recovery.

Cancer patients must also maintain their carbohydrate intake, as carbohydrates are a great source of energy. Since treatment and recovery requires lots of energy, patients must replace it to function properly. In fact, when the body lacks carbohydrates, it pulls them from other sources and causes deficiencies.

Drink Clear Liquids

Cancer treatment can sometimes cause a loss of appetite, which, unfortunately, hinders the healing process. When this occurs, some oncologists recommend that patients drink clear liquids. This is recommended for patients who are at risk of worsening their symptoms because of malnutrition. Clear fluids, by definition, are fluids that are easy to see through, pour, and easy to digest. If necessary, patients should be able to drink these fluids through a straw. Examples of clear liquids include bouillon, fat-free broths, fruit juices, tea, and water.

However, drinking clear liquids is a short-term solution because it does not provide all of the nutritional benefits that are necessary to recover. If clear liquids are not providing enough energy, oncologists may recommend full liquids. Full liquids are similar to clear liquids because they are easy to pour, but they have a higher nutritional value. Drinking full liquids is more likely to provide a patient's daily health requirement. Full liquid examples include milky drinks, pasteurized eggnog, fruit juices with nectar, and smooth ice cream. Some liquids qualify as both clear and full liquids. Patients should speak with their doctor if they experience complications with either type of fluids.

Try Applesauce

During cancer treatment, a patient's body is in overdrive to restore their health. Their body is working to fight cancer cells, but it also needs to repair the healthy cells exposed to chemotherapy and radiation. Since patients will likely have trouble keeping large meals down, they need to eat foods with a slightly mushy texture to get their daily vitamins and nutrients. Many cancer patients will experience significant nausea and vomiting. When this happens, they should try applesauce.

Applesauce is one of the easiest foods on an individual's stomach. Its texture is light, so it does not put too much pressure on their digestive system. Applesauce is also a great source of many nutrients and vitamins, including fiber. Since chemotherapy also compromises the immune system, applesauce is a great way to minimize exposure to toxins in the raw fruit. Because applesauce recipes heat the apples before blending them into sauce, most germs are cooked out of the apples.

Regularly Consume Eggs

One of the best foods that help individuals restore their strength and heal during cancer treatment is eggs. When patients regularly consume eggs, they increase their protein, choline, and vitamin B intake. Protein is important for recovery because it helps fight infection and rebuild cells after surgery. Choline assists with regulating cell function, which improves an individual's metabolism. Vitamin B converts food into energy that is then used to improve immune health. These vitamins also provide antioxidants, which keep cells healthy. If patients have had trouble eating or digesting their meals, eggs are great because they are enjoyed in many textures. Individuals can eat soft boiled or scrambled eggs, which have a softer texture that slide down their throat and sit well in their stomach.