Food is life sustaining. When a person is dealing with a life threatening disease, diet becomes even more important, yet it may be very difficult to eat food. For example, diet and breast cancer treatments may not work well together. The side effects of breast cancer treatment coupled with the emotional toll that having the disease exacts on a person may make it difficult for them to eat well or at all. Yet, the kind of diet breast cancer patients follow can help them regain strength, rebuild tissue that the cancer has damaged, and better cope with the side effects of treatment.
Diet and Breast Cancer: What to Eat
The kind of diet breast cancer patients follow will depend on their personal needs and circumstances. For instance, if a patient's breast cancer treatment is causing diarrhea, the patient may be able to temporarily decrease the amount of high-fiber foods in the diet.
In general, a well balance diet consists of fiber, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Eating from the following food groups regularly helps breast cancer patients recover from the illness.
• Fruits - A good source of vitamin C
• Vegetables - Provides high quantities of fiber and vitamins A and C
• Proteins: Meats, beans, nuts, and seeds are good sources of iron, zinc, and B vitamins
• Dairy products: Milk and cheese are rich in calcium, protein, and vitamin B12
• Grains: Carbohydrates, an important source of energy, can be found in breads, pasta, rice, and cereals.
Diet and Breast Cancer: Maintaining a Well-balanced Diet while Dealing with Side Effects
How does a breast cancer patient eat while experiencing unpleasant side effects from their treatment? The following suggestions will help breast cancer patients maintain a healthy diet while dealing with some of the most common side effects of breast cancer treatment.
Loss of Appetite
• Eat several small meals a day
• Keep a variety of foods in stock
• Make eating as appealing as possible (i.e., eat while watching television, share meals with loved ones, listen to music while eating, etc.)
Nausea
• Ask the doctor to prescribe medication that will alleviate the nausea
• Eat bland foods such as toast, crackers, yogurt, or baked or broiled skinless chicken
• Eat small amounts of foods slowly
• Drink plenty of fluids (but not with meals as this may cause a bloating sensation)
• Keep track of the foods that increase nausea and avoid them
Dry Mouth
• Moisten the mouth by taking small sips of water every few minutes
• To help the mouth produce more saliva, eat sweet foods or drink sweet beverages
• Eat moist foods that include sauces or gravies to help make swallowing easier
Diet and Breast Cancer: Support is Essential for Maintaining a Healthy Diet
Having breast cancer is a frightening and traumatic experience in many ways. In addition, breast cancer patients might find eating difficult due to the side effects of treatment and emotional turmoil. Therefore, a strong support network that includes the following individuals is key to maintaining a well-balanced diet.
• A doctor who can prescribe medications to alleviate symptoms
• A registered nutritionist who can give advice about food and nutrition
• Family and friends who can do the shopping, prepare meals, and provide encouragement
By taking these suggestions, a well-balanced diet and breast cancer treatment can work together to help patients make a strong recovery.