Chemotherapy is a common cancer treatment that can cause several side effects, including nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Proper management of these side effects is essential for maintaining adequate nutrition and overall health during chemotherapy. In this blog post, we will explore some tips for managing common side effects during chemotherapy.
- Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy. These side effects can be managed with several strategies, including:
- Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day, rather than three large meals.
- Avoid foods and smells that trigger nausea and vomiting.
- Drink fluids in small amounts throughout the day, rather than large amounts at one time.
- Try ginger, either in tea, candy or as a supplement, which has been shown to help reduce nausea. I don't like ginger but ginger candies are delicious and really helped me.
- Talk to your healthcare provider about medications that can help manage nausea and vomiting.
- Loss of Appetite
Loss of appetite is another common side effect of chemotherapy. This side effect can be managed with several strategies, including:
- Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day, rather than three large meals.
- Choose foods that are high in calories and protein, such as nuts, seeds, and cheese. Keep a motivational water bottle at your side.
- Drink fluids in small amounts throughout the day, rather than large amounts at one time. Eating is not as important as drinking water.
- Try to eat foods that you enjoy and that are easy to digest. I stuck to protein drinks and soups. Thorne makes excellent protein power https://www.thorne.com/search?
q=protein+powder and an excellent cookbook is 'The Cancer-Fighting Kitchen'. - Talk to your healthcare provider about medications that can help stimulate your appetite.
- Mouth Sores
Mouth sores can be a painful side effect of chemotherapy. These sores can be managed with several strategies, including:
- Choose soft, moist foods that are easy to swallow, such as yogurt and soup.
- Avoid foods that are spicy, acidic, or hot in temperature.
- Rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution several times a day to help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid flossing around the affected area.
- Talk to your healthcare provider about medications that can help manage mouth sores.
- Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common side effect of chemotherapy. This side effect can be managed with several strategies, including:
- Eat foods that are low in fiber, such as white bread and rice.
- Drink fluids in small amounts throughout the day, rather than large amounts at one time.
- Avoid foods and drinks that are high in sugar or artificial sweeteners.
- Talk to your healthcare provider about medications that can help manage diarrhea.
- Constipation
Constipation is another common side effect of chemotherapy. This side effect can be managed with several strategies, including:
- Eat foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- Stay physically active, if possible.
- Talk to your healthcare provider about medications that can help manage constipation.
- Fatigue
Fatigue is a common side effect of chemotherapy. This side effect can be managed with several strategies, including:
- Prioritize rest and sleep.
- Stay physically active, if possible. Even light exercise, such as walking, can help reduce fatigue.
- Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day, rather than three large meals.
- Talk to your healthcare provider about medications that can help manage fatigue.
- Changes in Taste and Smell
Chemotherapy can sometimes cause changes in taste and smell, which can make it difficult to enjoy food. These changes can be managed with several strategies, including:
- Choose foods that are mild in flavor and smell.
- Experiment with different spices and seasonings to add flavor to your food.
- Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- Try cold foods, such as ice cream or smoothies, which may be easier to tolerate.
- Talk to your healthcare provider