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Diet & Chemotherapy

Nutrition During Chemotherapy

No doubt about it—chemotherapy can affect a lot of your day-to-day living, and that includes what you eat and drink. These basic guidelines, many of them from the National Cancer Institute, may help you to be a bit more comfortable with your diet during chemotherapy.

Of course, as with everything else, check with your oncologist and healthcare team about any nutrition issues and questions.

Comfort Foods for Chemotherapy

Bland is pretty much the order of the day when it comes to eating during chemotherapy. Despite all the new drugs that help prevent nausea and vomiting, these side effects may be troublesome. So, you may feel sick to your stomach or under the weather for a day or two after a treatment.

If you are experiencing weight loss from cancer or from chemotherapy, talk to your doctor right away. You may need a special diet that is higher in calories or a dietary supplement. Medication also is available to help stimulate your appetite.

If nausea becomes a problem, you might start to associate the foods you eat during treatment with a feeling of nausea or tiredness. Why ruin your very favorites? Instead, consider good, old-fashioned comfort foods that are bland but nourishing, like applesauce and chicken soup. Check out the easy-to-prepare recipes found on the Recipes page of our site.

You also might want to try these tips:
  • Eat several small meals each day instead of a few large ones.
  • Eat foods cold or at room temperature so you won't be bothered by strong smells.
  • Avoid sweet, fried, or fatty foods, any foods that are hot or spicy, and foods that have strong odors.
  • Chew food well so it is easier to digest.
  • Suck on mints or tart candies. (Avoid tart candy if you have mouth or throat sores.)

Tips About Liquids

Likewise, following a few tips about beverages can help make you more comfortable if you experience nausea during chemotherapy.
  • Drink cool, clear, unsweetened juices (such as apple or grape juice) or light-colored, decaffeinated sodas (such as ginger ale) that have lost their fizz.
  • Drink liquids at least one hour before or after meals rather than at mealtimes.
  • Drink small amounts often rather that a lot at one time—and drink slowly.
Try to drink plenty of fluids every day, but especially when you don't feel like eating. Water is important to keep your body working properly. So drink up!
  • Aim for 6 to 8 cups of liquids a day.
  • Carry a water bottle with you for small drinks throughout the day.

Vitamins—Are They for You?

Some vitamins, minerals, and supplements can interfere with the effects of chemotherapy. To be on the safe side, check with your oncologist and healthcare team about any vitamin, supplement, or mineral you take. Remember that healthy foods can provide vitamins and minerals your body needs. Ask your healthcare team for guidance with your diet. More information about vitamins and supplements can be found on the Diet Tips page of the Web site.