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Things to Eat After Chemo

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy, but a few minor changes in your diet can make this stage of treatment more bearable. You should stay away from certain foods and gravitate to others, but since chemo affects everyone differently, you must tailor your diet to your own symptoms and health needs. Talk to your doctor about any symptoms you experience after chemotherapy treatment and any foods you specifically should or should not eat.

  1. Foods to Avoid

    • Stay away from your favorite foods after chemotherapy. The nausea and vomiting may turn you against these foods, an effect that may linger after treatment ends. Avoid greasy, fatty, spicy and sweet foods because these may trigger nausea symptoms. Acidic foods, such as citrus fruits and juices, may irritate your sensitive system. Stay away from caffeine and alcoholic beverages to avoid problems. In general, do not eat anything that tends to feel heavy in your stomach.

      Do not eat anything during vomiting episodes, and slowly ease back into eating after your vomiting ends.

    Foods to Eat

    • The American Cancer Society suggests eating soft, bland, easily digested foods on the day of your chemotherapy treatment. Eat dry foods, such as crackers, toast and dry cereals, when you get up in the morning and every few hours to settle your stomach. Sip on clear fluids throughout the day to make sure you stay hydrated. Eat small meals frequently so that you are never too hungry or too full. Try foods that do not have strong odors and choose cool foods rather than hot and spicy dishes. Try to stick to a balanced diet that includes lean meats (baked, not fried), non-sugary breads and pastas, potatoes, fruits and vegetables as you can tolerate them.

    Considerations

    • Not every chemotherapy patient experiences nausea and vomiting, so do not alter your diet until you know how the treatment affects you. Though you should drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, avoid drinking liquids with meals. If you need to rest, keep your head elevated for at least two hours after eating to avoid nausea and vomiting. You should eat in a cool room that is free of strong odors. Fresh air and loose clothing may help ease any discomfort after eating. Daily exercise can help keep constipation at bay, but avoid exercise directly after eating because it may slow down your digestion and increase your discomfort.

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