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Nutrition During Chemotherapy

Good nutrition is important at all times, but it is even more crucial when you are embarking on cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy. Your body will need nutritional guidance during two periods, the treatment period and the in-between treatment period.

  1. Fluid Guideline for Treatment Period

    • "Pushing Fluids" will flush the chemotherapy by-products and wastes out of your system and protect your kidneys. An easy rule to follow is to take your weight and divide by two. That is the number of ounces you should be drinking daily; however don't drink them with meals so that your digestive juices are at their full strength, per the Oncology Channel..

    Food Guideline for Treatment Period

    • During this phase eat smaller portions more often rather than three larger ones. Eat bland, low-fat, low acidity foods.

    Suggestions During Treatment Period

    • Watermelon is perfect right after chemotherapy. It is high in water and potassium. Sprinkle salt on it to include your sodium needs.

    Fluid Guideline In Between Treatments

    • Drink plenty of sugar-free drinks, decaf or herbal teas, water and juices. Caloric dense beverages including yogurt smoothies and nutritional shakes are key if you're having difficulty eating solid food or are losing too much weight.

    Foods Guideline In Between Treatments

    • Eat a balance of protein, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats. A cup of yogurt over berries and bananas topped off with a sprinkle of flaxmeal gives your cells a boost probiotics, prebiotics, and omega-3 fats.

    Suggestions In Between Treatments

    • Remember that proteins are the foundation in building healthy new cells. The phytochemical compounds found in fruits, vegetables and grains protect healthy cells and block cancer-cell growth.

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