Nutrition for Radiotherapy Patients

Ideal Diet Intake for Cancer Patients

Protein

Protein-rich foods help in the repair and maintenance of body tissues, rebuild muscle, and strengthen the immune system.   Examples of food sources: fish, chicken, egg, milk and dairy products, soybean and soy products, legumes.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are a source of energy and help in energy replenishment.   Examples of food sources: bread, rice, potato, pumpkin, corn, pasta, cereal.

Fiber, Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamins and Minerals help to support the body’s function and metabolism.   Fibre helps in digestion and prevents constipation.   Examples of food sources: vegetables, fruits, whole grains.

Fluids

Consuming enough fluids keeps you hydrated and helps to replace fluid loss.   Examples of fluid sources: plain water, soups, juices, milk.   Suggested plain water intake: 6 to 8 glasses per day (1 glass = 250 ml).

Supplements

Consult your doctor or a pharmacist about appropriate vitamins or supplements while you are undergoing treatment.

Pay attention to the food that may cause diarrhoea

A portion of your large intestine, known as the colon, might fall within the treatment area. The colon is particularly susceptible to the efffects of radiation, which may lead to discomfort such as abdominal cramps and diarrhoea. To mitigate these potential side effects, adhere to the folowwing recommendations:

• Avoid gas-producing foods
• Avoid food high in lactose (dairy products)
• Avoid greasy, fatty, and fried food (friench fries, bacon, sausages, full-fat cheese, potato chips), pastries, gravies, and high-fat sauces.
• Avoid spicy food (chilli, cayenne, jalapeno, mustard, and black pepper)
• Eat more food with soluble fibre (white rice, apples and pears without skin, apple sauce, oatmeal, smooth peanut butter, and ripe bananas)
• Eating 5-6 small meals throughout the day might be more suitable than having big meals